Background
Anderson Acoustics was commissioned by Spruce Architecture to undertake a noise assessment to support a planning application for a proposed microbrewery and taproom at the Old Engine Shed, Arundel.
The project involved the conversion of the existing Victorian-era building into a microbrewery, taproom, office and shop.
What we did
The South Downs National Park Planning Authority wanted to understand how the site would be managed to ensure minimising any possible noise disturbance later in the evenings, when the taproom is open, for residents living in dwellings nearby.
Our assessment considered two main sources of noise including entertainment noise and patron noise. Noise from fixed plant was also analysed and fixed limits set out based on our background noise survey results.
- Entertainment noise – it was understood that soft, background music would be played within the taproom. Even with doors of the taproom open, we advised it would be highly unlikely that the music would be audible in the nearest noise sensitive premises and therefore further assessment was not deemed necessary.
- Patron noise – noise may be produced by patrons accessing (including queuing), using (both internal and external spaces) and leaving the premises. Designated smoking areas can also give rise to noise. The criteria states such noise “should also be inaudible inside residential properties with windows open for reasonable ventilation”
Noise levels on site
We determined the prevailing noise conditions across the development by undertaking detailed environmental noise surveys, comprising a mix of attended and unattended measurements.
Noise assessment and noise management plan
We undertook a desktop assessment using the 3D noise modelling software package CadnaA 2021 to predict operational noise levels at the nearest noise-sensitive receptors and proposing relevant mitigation measures.
At the time of the assessment, the design of fixed plant serving the brewery and taproom had not been finalised however the assessment showed that existing plant met the local authority guidance and we also provided a limit for any further plant to be installed.
We concluded that based on the local authority guidance and the noise survey results, the operation of the taproom should not cause an adverse impact on the nearest noise sensitive receptors.
Project Progress
Planning permission was granted in October 2022 and the taproom is open for business run by Fauna Brewery. An impressive space with a really interesting history once housing Arundel Castle’s own generator, powering the electricity throughout the castle.
