Noise mapping is a very powerful calculation tool which can produce noise contour plots over an area, or noise levels at individual locations. It enables complex calculations from many noise sources to be undertaken over a large geographical area. Changes in situation, for example the addition of new noise sources or the effects of mitigation, can be readily assessed and presented visually.

WBM regularly use ‘SoundPlan’ noise mapping software to calculate noise from road traffic and industrial sources, and rail traffic calculations can also be undertaken. The FAA’s Integrated Noise Model (INM) is used to calculate noise from aircraft. The output from both programs can be combined.

WBM projects which have utilised noise mapping include factory noise, new residential development adjacent to noisy roads, and a large military aerodrome which combined multiple industrial sources with aircraft noise.

An example noise contour plot of road traffic noise in a residential area is shown.