Noise Assessment for Residential Development at Sittingbourne

Lustre Consulting was appointed by by Cantium Land and Development to conduct a detailed Noise Assessment for a proposed residential development at Forge Lane, Upchurch, Sittingbourne. The development site is situated adjacent to Holywell Primary School, raising concerns about potential noise impacts from the school’s playground and surrounding activities.

Project Overview

The proposed development, located on the edge of Upchurch village, comprises 16 new residential dwellings with associated access roads and gardens. Given the site’s close proximity to a school, understanding and mitigating noise impacts were critical to ensuring future residents’ comfort and compliance with planning guidelines. Swale Borough Council required the Noise Assessment as part of the planning process.

Noise Assessment Approach

Our Noise Assessment combined on-site monitoring, acoustic analysis, and tailored mitigation recommendations to address potential noise challenges.

1. Baseline Noise Survey
   An unattended noise survey was undertaken over a 48-hour period, capturing representative data during school hours and after-school hours. Measurements were taken using Class 1 sound level meters strategically placed at the site boundary near the school playground.
   
   The findings confirmed elevated noise levels during school hours, with peak levels attributed to children playing outdoors.
   
2. Acoustic Impact Analysis
   Using the collected data, we evaluated noise impacts in accordance with:
   
   • BS 8233:2014 (Sound Insulation and Noise Reduction for Buildings).
     
   • ProPG: Planning & Noise Guidance for new residential developments.

The assessment revealed that daytime noise levels slightly exceeded the upper guidance of 55 dB LAeq for outdoor amenity spaces.

Mitigation Measures

To achieve compliance with noise standards and create a comfortable living environment, our Acoustic Consultants recommended the following mitigation measures:

• Acoustic Barrier Installation: A 2-metre-high acoustic barrier at the site boundary with the school playground. The barrier, with no gaps and a mass per unit area of 15 kg/m², was designed to provide 5–10 dB noise attenuation.
  
• Acoustic Glazing and Ventilation:
  For indoor noise control, double-glazing units with trickle ventilation were specified to achieve sound insulation in line with BS 8233. This ensures indoor noise levels remain within the acceptable threshold, even with slightly open windows.
  
• Optimised Layout Design:
  Strategic placement of the dwellings maximised distance from the primary noise source, reducing direct noise exposure.

Results and Outcome

The Noise Assessment demonstrated that, with the proposed mitigation measures:

• Outdoor amenity spaces could achieve noise levels between 47–52 dB LAeq, compliant with BS 8233 standards.
  
• Indoor noise levels would comfortably meet the required thresholds, ensuring a high-quality living environment for future residents.

Furthermore, noise levels outside school hours were notably lower, reflecting minimal impact during evenings and weekends when residents are more likely to use outdoor spaces.

Conclusion

Lustre Consulting’s Noise Assessment provided a robust, evidence-based solution to manage noise impacts at Forge Lane. By addressing Swale Borough Council’s requirements and delivering tailored recommendations, we ensured the development met acoustic standards while creating a comfortable and compliant environment for future residents.

For more information on how Lustre Consulting can assist with Noise Assessments and mitigation strategies, visit our Noise Assessment services page.