Background
When the Government of Antigua and Barbuda proposed a new airstrip on the island of Barbuda, Anderson Acoustics was appointed to assess the potential noise impacts on nearby communities. With no region-specific environmental noise standards in place, our task was to deliver a robust and defensible assessment that could guide sustainable development and reassure residents.
Approach
We applied internationally recognised frameworks – including the World Health Organization’s Environmental Noise Guidelines for the European Region (2018) - to establish clear and transparent noise criteria. Using the Aviation Environmental Design Tool (AEDT), we modelled aircraft operations for the proposed airstrip, considering current and projected traffic five years into operation.
To address data gaps, our team created a bespoke dwelling dataset representing approximately 500 homes, integrating GIS tools to map population exposure and noise contours. This ensured a realistic and evidence-based understanding of how the relocation would affect residents.
Findings
The modelling demonstrated that the new airstrip location would substantially reduce noise exposure for the community of Codrington. Around 315 people and over 100 dwellings would be removed from exposure to noticeable aircraft noise, with no homes exceeding the 45 dB Lden threshold at either opening or future operational stages.
Outcome
The assessment provided the Government with clear, quantitative evidence that the proposed development would bring environmental improvement as well as economic opportunity. By applying global best practice to a local context, we delivered an assessment that worked towards setting a new benchmark for environmental noise evaluation – which supported community wellbeing.
This project highlighted our expertise in technical noise modelling, applying international standards, and finding solutions even when data was limited. By successfully adapting global approaches to suit local needs, our team gave the client clear and reliable evidence. This underlines our ability to deliver first-rate acoustic guidance, even in challenging and developing situations.
