Background
This project involves constructing a new energy-from-waste facility at the Edmonton EcoPark, located on Advent Way, Edmonton, N18 3AG. The site is a large mixed-use industrial estate in North London, housing the existing Edmonton Waste Incineration Plant. The area includes various uses such as distribution and storage centres, data centres, retail, events, leisure, and materials recycling.
Acciona UK commissioned Anderson Acoustics to develop a construction noise and dust monitoring strategy and deliver the construction noise and dust monitoring programme for the duration of the project.
Our Involvement
Baseline noise survey
The primary objective was to conduct a baseline noise monitoring survey to inform the monitoring strategy and set noise trigger levels for construction works, so suitable noise limits would be set to ensure minimal noise impact on sensitive receptors.
Noise Monitoring Methodology
Given the distance to the closest noise-sensitive receptors, monitoring construction noise at such distances was deemed ineffective as the noise levels would be dominated by road noise. Instead, noise levels were monitored at or within the construction site boundary, with a distance correction applied to consider noise levels at sensitive receptors. Sound levels were measured continuously at two locations within the site.
Baseline Noise Monitoring Results
The baseline noise environment at both monitoring locations was dominated by local vehicle traffic, existing local industrial and commercial plant, and road traffic on the North Circular (A406). Continuous noise monitoring was conducted for approximately three weeks, and attended noise monitoring was performed at three locations representative of the closest residential receptors.
Site Action Levels for Prevention of Potential Significant Effects
The measured baseline noise levels were used to categorize the monitoring receptor locations following the ABC method described in BS5228-1:2009+A1:2014. Noise limits for on-site monitoring positions were calculated based on the significance criteria for each period (day, evening, and night), distance correction to residential receptors, and baseline noise levels.
Site Alert and Action Levels
Two limits were set for the noise monitors: a Site Alert Level and a Site Action Level. The Site Alert Level was set at 78 dB LAeq,T across the 24-hour period to indicate potential effects on other land uses in the industrial estate. The Site Action Level was set to avoid potential significant effects at residential receptors and Noise at Work Regulations compliance. Upon exceedance of these levels, designated recipients would receive an alert, and site staff would investigate the cause and implement measures to reduce construction noise levels.
The results of the baseline noise survey identified the locations for the long-term continuous noise monitoring, which we have been conducting for over 2 years during the extensive works.
Particulate and dust monitoring
Continuous dust/particulate monitoring was required to meet the requirements of the North London Heat & Power Project Code of Construction Practice that formed part of the planning application for the development.
Monitoring was undertaken up and downwind of construction and demolition activities for PM10, PM2.5 , PM1 and total suspended particulates.
Project Progress
The noise and dust monitoring continues at the site. The substantial first phase of the civil construction works is nearing completion.
Testimonial
“Anderson Acoustics has been associated with Acciona Industrial UK since 12th April 2022. They have constistently demonstrated proactiviity in the provision of continuous monitoring of particulate and dust and noise, effectively anticipating challenges and providing solutions. Their service is exemplary, marked by prompt responses and a customer-centric approach. Even under tight deadlines, Anderson Acoustics adapts efficiently, maintaining quality. Their dedication to their work and clients has been pivotal to our success.” Fernando de Vega, Acciona Industrial UK
