Planning a new development in the UK comes with a long list of regulatory considerations. One requirement that’s increasingly common, especially in areas with existing residential or commercial buildings, is a Noise Assessment. Without it, your planning application could face delays, objections, or even refusal.
What Is a Noise Assessment?
A noise assessment is a technical report that evaluates how noise from a proposed development may affect nearby receptors, or how existing noise sources may impact future occupants. It forms a vital part of the planning process, especially for developments near roads, railways, industrial sites, or entertainment venues.
When Is a Noise Assessment Required?
You may be asked to submit a noise assessment if your development involves:
• Residential properties near transport routes or industrial estates
• Commercial premises such as pubs, restaurants, or event venues
• Changes of use, particularly where noise-sensitive or noise-generating activities are introduced
• Plant or machinery installations (e.g. air conditioning units or extract systems)
Local authorities and Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) often request a noise assessment during the validation stage of planning applications. Getting it done early avoids delays and gives your project the best chance of approval.
Why Are Noise Assessments Important for Planning?
- Meet Local Authority Requirements
Most councils follow guidelines set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and BS8233:2014, which require developments to mitigate noise to acceptable levels. A noise assessment demonstrates your compliance with these standards. - Avoid Planning Refusals or Delays
Without a proper assessment, your application may receive objections from Environmental Health, requiring amendments or additional documentation — delaying approval. - Protect Future Occupants
If your development includes residential units, it’s critical to ensure acceptable internal noise levels. A noise assessment helps identify where mitigation (like upgraded glazing or acoustic fencing) may be needed. - Support Acoustic Design
For commercial developments, a noise assessment can inform the design of plant equipment enclosures or the layout of outdoor areas, ensuring they won’t negatively impact neighbouring properties. - Build Credibility with Planners
Submitting a professionally prepared noise assessment shows that your team understands and respects planning policy — something decision-makers value highly.
What’s Included in a Hawkins Environmental Noise Assessment?
At Hawkins Environmental, we tailor each report to the requirements of your planning authority. Our assessments typically include:
• Desktop study of the surrounding area
• On-site noise monitoring (if required)
• BS4142 or BS8233-compliant analysis
• Predicted noise levels with and without mitigation
• Recommendations for noise control
• Easy-to-read executive summary for planners
We pride ourselves on fast turnaround times, clear reporting, and practical advice that helps projects move forward.
Who Needs a Noise Assessment?
A noise assessment may be necessary if:
• You’re building near a major road, railway, or industrial site
• You’re introducing residential units into a mixed-use area
• Your development includes noise-generating plant or equipment
• Your premises will operate late at night or in close proximity to existing homes
• The local authority has requested one during the pre-app or planning process
Our Expertise
We work with architects, planning consultants, and developers across the UK to deliver effective, planning-focused noise assessments. We ensure a deep understanding of what planning officers expect.
A well-prepared Noise Assessment can be the difference between a smooth approval and a drawn-out process full of objections. It’s not just a box-ticking exercise — it’s a crucial tool for building better, more sustainable developments.
Need support with a planning application? Contact Hawkins Environmental today and speak to a noise expert.
Contact Hawkins Environmental
• Phone: 01256 522332
• Email: enquiry@hawkinsenvironmental.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does it take to get an assessment?
A1: Most assessments can be completed within 5–7 working days, depending on whether on-site monitoring is required.
Q2: Can an assessment be done without visiting the site?
A2: In some cases, a desktop study may be sufficient. However, for more complex developments or where specific noise concerns exist, on-site monitoring may be required.
Q3: What happens if an assessment shows high noise levels?
A3: The report will include mitigation recommendations — such as enhanced glazing, acoustic barriers, or layout changes — to reduce noise to acceptable levels and satisfy planning requirements.