Transportation noise is the dominant noise generator in the UK and is often the most significant noise source affecting new developments. Noise sensitive developments adjacent to or affected by transportation noise require the careful assessment of these sources, either by measurement or prediction. This assessment enables the correct specification of the building envelope to achieve appropriate internal noise levels in new developments. New or altered forms of transportation sources near to existing noise sensitive sites also require careful assessment to minimise impact.
WBM is able to provide detailed advice, based on measurements and computer modelling for road traffic noise as well as noise from railways and other guided transport such as metro systems, and aircraft noise for both civilian and military installations.
Road traffic continues to be the dominant noise source in the UK. WBM is able to computer model road noise propagation and plan the best mean of mitigation for noise sensitive areas, including the use of barriers, bunds or low noise road surfaces. This allows new or altered roads to have minimal impact on existing housing and new housing besides existing roads to confirm to current environmental standards. In addition to noise from different types of existing, new and altered roads, WBM has also undertaken noise assessments of motorway service areas.
The noise from rail traffic, including both passenger and freight trains can also be assessed. The measurement and computer modelling of the noise from trains enables new housing adjacent to railways to be assessed against within recognised national criteria. WBM has undertaken the assessment of several traincare depots in residential areas with successful outcomes.
The movement of freight by rail has required WBM to assess rail loading and unloading facilities, particularly at night. We have worked with operators to gain permission for extended periods of operation by careful analysis of the present situation and assessment of future mitigation needs.
Assessment of aircraft noise, both in the air and on the ground are undertaken. WBM uses Integrated Noise Model (INM) to predict in-flight noise levels from civilian and military movements from both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. Ground noise from aircraft activities immediately prior to take-off, after landing or due to maintenance activity such as engine testing can be calculated using noise mapping software. Noise from the major UK airports is also a significant noise source and WBM has undertaken measurements or used current air noise contours to assess the noise impact on new developments in the vicinity of these sites.
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