Mapping traffic noise annoyance: visualising environmental stress on children’s walk-quality using a psychoacoustic isochrone approach

Abstract

Abstract

Urban design and transport strategies increasingly promote active travel for environmental and health benefits yet often overlook the psychological impacts of environmental stressors such as traffic noise and its effect on pedestrians. This study introduces a spatial analysis approach that visualises where children may be exposed to noise annoyance on their walk to school by integrating environmental psychology principles with geospatial modelling, presented as walkable catchment isochrones with a quantifiable Amenity Cost. Rather than treating traffic noise as an objective emission, the method engages Psychoacoustic Annoyance [PA] as a perceptual indicator within a custom-built pedestrian isochrone network to quantify Walk-Quality catchments for 18 primary schools across metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. The results are presented both statistically and spatially as a proof-of-concept strategy for scenario testing of potential interventions that enables decision-makers and urban designers to assess Walk-Quality from a receiver-centric perspective, highlighting the often-invisible impact of environmental noise. By reframing Walk-Quality through the lens of environmental stress, the study advances a method that supports more inclusive urban planning, particularly in prioritising quiet, child-friendly walking routes within active transport policy frameworks. This method is replicable and adaptable, offering urban designers a critical and evidence-based tool to identify pedestrian amenity shortfalls and inform noise-sensitive spatial interventions across diverse urban contexts.