Background
Lyondale Planning Ltd commissioned Anderson Acoustics to develop a comprehensive ventilation strategy for the redevelopment of a residential property at 15 Leeland Road, London.
The project involved refurbishing the first-floor residential accommodation and constructing additional second and third-floor levels with a mansard roof to create eight self-contained residential units.
The Challenge
The primary challenge was to mitigate the impact of existing poor air quality for residents while complying with the planning conditions set by the London Borough of Ealing (LBE) Council. The site is located in an Air Quality Focus Area (AQFA), which required careful consideration of air quality policies and the planning condition.
What we did
Air Quality Assessment
- We conducted an air quality assessment to evaluate the potential effects of existing and future air quality on the occupants
- The assessment included a review of air quality policies, criteria, and baseline concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5)
Ventilation Strategy
- The existing natural ventilation system to be replaced with a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) system
- The MVHR system includes NOx and PM filtration to ensure the cleanest air possible for residents
- The MVHR inlet to be positioned at rooftop level to benefit from greater dispersion at height, while the exhaust to be located at least 1.5 meters away from the inlet
Mitigation Measures
- The MVHR system proposed includes PM and NOx filtration slots
- The filters reduce NOx by 90% and remove 50% of PM2.5, ensuring compliance with the World Health Organization (WHO) air quality guidelines
Results
- The air quality assessment indicated that the annual mean NO2 concentrations and daily mean PM10 concentrations at the site were well within the air quality objectives
- The introduction of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is expected to further reduce NO2 and PM concentrations in the area
Conclusion
The ventilation strategy we developed for the redevelopment of 15 Leeland Road, effectively addressed the challenges posed by poor air quality. By implementing a state-of-the-art MVHR system with advanced filtration, the project would ensure compliance with air quality objectives and provided a high-quality living environment for residents.
This case study demonstrates the importance of integrating air quality considerations into urban development projects to enhance the well-being of occupants and ensure a suitable ventilation strategy.
Project Progress
Ealing Council approved the details in pursuant on Condition 6 (ventilation strategy) on 27th March 2024.
