Case Studies: Mixed and Retail

Aldi Supermarket, Buckley, Flintshire

Spectrum carried out a planning noise impact assessment for a proposed 1,760m2 Aldi food store in Buckley, Flintshire. The assessment covered the impacts of noise associated with deliveries and mechanical services plant. Prior to carrying out the assessment, an attended background noise measurement survey was conducted at the proposed development site. The impacts were then assessed by comparing the predicted noise levels from the sources using a computer based model, with the background noise levels measured, at the nearby noise sensitive receptors. Where the assessment indicated there would be an adverse noise impact, mitigation measures were proposed accordingly.

The Stamford Post, Stamford, Lincolnshire

J D Wetherspoon acquired the former Stamford Mercury newspaper offices in Stamford, Lincolnshire and converted the premises into a new Public House. Spectrum were instructed to produce a noise impact assessment covering the operation of the Public House which was required to satisfy a planning condition. The assessment included the impact from noise associated with mechanical services plant, as well as the impact of noise from patrons in the external area at the front of the premises.

The Hedgeford Lodge, Hednesford, Staffordshire

J D Wetherspoon acquired Anglesey Lodge, a former office building in the town centre of Hednesford in Staffordshire. Planning permission was sought to convert the premises into a new Public House. Consequently, a noise assessment was required by the local authority to consider the impacts of noise on the nearby residential community. Spectrum produced a noise impact assessment covering the operation of the Public House. The assessment included the impact of noise associated with mechanical services plant, patron noise in the beer garden and noise breakout though the building envelope.

The Wallaw, Blyth, Northumberland

J D Wetherspoon acquired a disused cinema located in the town centre of Blyth, Northumberland and were granted planning permission, subject to conditions to convert the building into a new Public House. One of the conditions related to noise from mechanical services plant. Accordingly, Spectrum were instructed to produce a noise impact assessment covering the operation of the mechanical plant.

TGI Fridays, Guildford

TGI Friday’s at Guildford had been experiencing some difficulties with the environmental noise from their aging air conditioning system. We were instructed to assist them investigate the noise issues, and we did so, preparing a report for the Local Authority. As part of a wider plan of refurbishment, we then helped the Building Services Engineers develop a scheme to replace and refurbish the plant, controlling noise to acceptable levels.

The Watchman, New Malden

Formerly a Police Station, this site was purchased by Wetherspoons and converted to a pub. Spectrum supported the design team on acoustic issues and noise from mechanical plant, preparing specifications and planning reports for the local authority.

The Knights Templar, Chancery Lane, London

A historic inn, not far from Bell Yard where Knights Templars converged and trained before setting off for the Crusades. Wetherspoon took over the site and refurbished it completely. Spectrum were involved in noise studies for mechanical plant and internal acoustic design and prepared reports to support planning applications.

Starbucks, Greenwich Church Street, London

One of 20 Starbucks café outlets within London which Spectrum provided assistance on dealing with potential planning and noise issues associated with the impact of mechanical plant equipment.