Residential Development
The concept of Noise Exposure Categories (NECs) for new residential developments was introduced in the DoE Planning and Policy Guidance note PPG 24: Planning and Noise (1994). The categories of noise exposure range from NEC A, where noise is unlikely to be a determining factor, through to NEC D, where the development should normally be refused. These different categories are defined by existing or future daytime and night-time ambient noise levels. PPG 24 is being revised and is due to be re-issued as a Planning Policy Statement.
Southdowns provides specialist technical advice on all issues associated with the definition of Noise Exposure Categories for new developments and the use of additional criteria where appropriate. Such advice includes the measurement and calculation of ambient noise levels, using desk top studies where appropriate, and the evaluation of design options and incorporated mitigation to ensure that agreed noise criteria can be achieved. Input is offered at an early stage in the design of site and internal layouts to optimise the use of natural resources and to ensure that cost effective solutions are provided to meet any requirements for mitigation.
For new development near to existing noisy sources, there is often a requirement to provide adequate details on the planned acoustic specification for the building envelope, including glazing types, and facade construction recommendation.
The Building Regulations place responsibility on developers to ensure that appropriate sound insulation is provided in new developments and conversion projects. Southdowns can provide advice on the construction details of building elements to achieve the performance requirements stipulated in Approved Document E of the Building Regulations, as well as measurement services to ensure the completed development achieves the required performance. Further details on this service are provided here.