PPG 24 Planning and noise

ISVR Consulting can assist with the assessment of suitability of sites for new noise-sensitive developments in accordance with the Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) 24 “Planning and noise”, by the Department of the Environment. PPG 24 applies in England only.

For new dwellings, PPG 24 recommends the use of ‘Noise Exposure Category’ (NEC) bands, designed to assist Local Authorities in evaluating planning applications for residential developments near to or affected by road, rail, air and ‘mixed’ noise sources. A proposed development will fall into one of four NEC bands, based on the noise levels at the site. Normally 24-hour surveys are carried out on site to establish the average (L_Aeq) levels for night-time and daytime periods.

The assessment is then based on these four NEC bands, from lowest to highest noise levels:

NEC A: “Noise need not be considered as a determining factor in granting planning permission, although noise at the high end of the category should not be regarded as a desirable level”.
NEC B: “Noise should be taken into account when determining planning applications and, where appropriate, conditions imposed to ensure an adequate level of protection against noise”.
NEC C: “Planning permission should not normally be granted. Where it is considered that permission should be given, for example because there are no alternative quieter sites available, conditions should be imposed to ensure a commensurate level of protection against noise”.
NEC D: “Planning permission should normally be refused”.

ISVR Consulting can also assist in minimising the potentially adverse impact of noise on proposed noise sensitive developments should the assessment from PPG 24 suggests that planning permission may not be granted.

If you would like further information please contact:

Andy Varley
ISVR Consulting
University of Southampton
Highfield
Southampton, SO17 1BJ
UK

Telephone enquiries: 023 8059 2162 (+44 23 8059 2162 from outside the UK)
Fax: 023 8059 2162 (+44 23 8059 2728 from outside the UK)

Or E-mail: consultancy@isvr.co.uk