Background
Egon Environmental Ltd commissioned Anderson Acoustics to conduct a comprehensive noise and odour risk assessment for the proposed change of use of Parthenon House from offices (Class E(c)) to an Indian cuisine restaurant (Class E(b)). The assessments were necessary to support the planning application and ensure compliance with local authority guidelines.
What we did
The noise impact assessment aimed to evaluate the potential noise emissions from the proposed kitchen ventilation system and replacement condenser units. The assessment followed the BS 4142:2014+A1:2019 guidance for rating and assessing industrial and commercial sound.
- The existing building, previously used as offices, had multiple condenser units that were to be replaced with newer, quieter models
- The proposed kitchen ventilation system included a Helios Gigabox air extraction fan unit, with specific sound power levels
- Continuous noise monitoring was conducted over 14 days, capturing ambient and background noise levels. Predicted noise levels at the nearest residential receptors were calculated using a 3D acoustic model
- The results indicated that the rating noise levels for the proposed equipment did not exceed the background noise levels, suggesting a low probability of adverse comments from nearby residents
Odour Risk Assessment
The odour risk assessment aimed to evaluate the potential odour emissions from the proposed kitchen extraction and ventilation system. The assessment followed the EMAQ+ Guidance for the Control of Odour and Noise from Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Systems.
- The proposed development included various catering equipment with high odour potential, such as a tandoor oven, roti burner, and dual fryer
- The odour risk assessment indicated a high level of odour risk, necessitating a very high level of odour control
- The proposed extraction system included baffle filters, electrostatic precipitation units, ozone units, and activated carbon filters
- The odour control measures were designed to ensure minimal or undetectable residual cooking odour at sensitive receptor locations
Conclusion
The comprehensive noise and odour assessments demonstrated that the proposed change of use for Parthenon House would not have a significant adverse impact on the surrounding environment. The noise levels from the proposed kitchen ventilation system and replacement condenser units were within acceptable limits, and the odour control measures were designed to effectively mitigate any potential odour emissions. These findings supported the planning application and ensured compliance with local authority guidelines.
Project Progress
Three Rivers District Council gave planning permission for the development in July 2023. The Bank Indian restaurant opened in September 2024 following a 2-year restoration project of the historic building.
