The noise survey needed to be carried out during the quietest period of the night, the time when potential impact from amplified music will be at its greatest. We were able to use survey data a project we did with Mantra in 2015.

We set up a computer model of the site and surrounding area, and inputted noise sources for the front and rear of the Wellington Mill building. By also modelling industrial and residential buildings, site terrain and relative heights, we were quickly able to predict how much music noise would reach each sensitive receptor.

Manchester City Council required entertainment noise received at residential receptors should be 10 dB below the background noise level (LA90). The model quickly allowed comparison between the predicted entertainment noise, and the background noise measured during the noise survey. This demonstrated that even with the PA system working at its maximum, the council’s requirements regarding noise could be met.

Mantra carried out a further assessment to consider low frequency noise (63 Hz and 125 Hz). Although this isn’t a Council requirement, it’s often bass frequencies residents can hear within their homes and find particularly disturbing. Again, the assessment demonstrated that noise in these frequency bands would be more than 10 dB below existing background levels.

The conclusion of the assessment was with the Warehouse venue in operation, there would be no adverse noise impact on nearby residents. Good news for Mantra, but also good news for the community.

dBx Acoustics was thrilled to be part of the team behind the Beehive in York. A purpose-built centre, the Beehive is thought to be the first of kind in the country and it provides short breaks for children and young people with complex disabilities.

dBx Acoustics provided acoustic design advice as well as a planning noise impact assessment. The project was especially dear to Susan, dBx Acoustics director as both she and her daughter are autistic. Susan is also a member of the Institute of Acoustics Diversity and Inclusion committee.

The facilities at the Beehive include:

• a safe and accessible space for play and interaction with family members and with staff
• apartments for children and parents to stay in during longer term assessment of their support needs
• access to a range of professionals who can help to support families in meeting the children’s needs
• spacious bedrooms with state-of-the-art hoist and bathing facilities for children who have complex health needs and wheelchair users
• a larger, open-spaced area and bedrooms for children with learning disabilities or autism
• quieter self-contained areas that can be used for children who may struggle in a more open, busier environment and where their parents can accompany them so that their needs can be fully assessed
• an activity area, sensory room and quiet rooms
• a large outdoor play space with a variety of equipment suitable for children of all abilities.

Find out more about the Beehive here.