Background
Neilcott Construction embarked on a project to transform the Maple and Poplar Day Centre, a vacant facility, into a vibrant residential community. The development plan included the demolition of the existing structure and the construction of two new three-story buildings, housing a total of 34 two-bedroom apartments.
Our involvement
As part of the planning permission, the local authority imposed conditions to ensure that the new residential buildings would not be adversely affected by vibration and noise. Specifically, Condition 19 required that the vibration levels within the buildings meet specific standards to avoid any negative impact on the residents’ comfort and well-being. Additionally, Conditions 8 and 9 required noise assessments to ensure that external noise levels and sound insulation of the building envelope met the criteria of BS 8233:2014.
We conducted thorough reviews of previous vibration and noise surveys that had been undertaken at the site.
Vibration Survey: The survey results indicated that the measured vibration levels were significantly below the thresholds set by the British Standard BS 6472-1:2008, which guides the evaluation of human exposure to vibration in buildings indicating that the site was well within acceptable limits. Therefore, no further input was required to demonstrate suitability.
Noise Assessment: The noise assessments aimed to ensure that internal noise levels within the residential units did not exceed the guideline values recommended by BS 8233:2014. The assessments also considered noise levels in external amenity areas.
Additional Acoustic Considerations
In addition, we provided a comprehensive acoustic design review to ensure compliance with the relevant planning conditions and Building Regulations Approved Document E (ADE) requirements. This included:
- External Building Fabric: Specifications for glazing, ventilation, external wall, and roof constructions to achieve appropriate internal ambient noise levels.
- Internal Building Fabric: Sound insulation between dwellings and between noise-generating areas (e.g., plant rooms).
- Control of Reverberation: Measures to control reverberation time in circulation areas to enhance acoustic comfort.
Outcome
The acoustic design review ensured that all aspects of the building’s acoustic performance met the required standards, providing a comfortable living environment for future residents.
To address noise levels in external amenity areas, a 2.5-meter solid barrier was proposed along the eastern boundary of the site. This barrier effectively reduced noise levels in ground floor gardens to below the upper guideline level, providing suitable spaces for relaxation.
Project Progress
Construction began in 2022 on the former day care and care home brownfield site which had been left unused for many years before being repurposed to meet housing needs.
The Maple & Poplar residential development is an example of how thorough planning and expert consultancy can ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining the comfort and safety of future residents.
The build was completed in October 2024.
