A plan that would restrict the use of wheeled luggage in an attempt to reduce noise pollution in Venice is under consideration by the city authorities.
The plan, which, if approved, would become effective from May 2015, would ban trolley bags with plastic or solid rubber wheels, the noisier kind (and the majority sold around the world), and would only allow those equipped with air-filled pneumatic casters. These restrictions would also apply to local businesses using trolleys to carry goods; they would not apply to residents. Fines would range from 100 to 500 euros.
The proposed measure follows complaints from residents that the constant noise of tourists pulling luggage trolleys along walkways and canal bridges is driving them crazy, besides preventing them from sleeping at night. If approved, the plan will be included in the urban planning and building regulations for the city.
The restrictions would come into effect at the same time as the start of Milan Expo 2015, as it is estimated many Expo attendees will pay a visit to Venice given the canal city is easily accessible by train from Milan.
