Case Studies: Transportation and Distribution

F M Conway Asphalt Plant, Erith, London

Spectrum undertook background noise measurements and predicted noise impacts from this new asphalt production and distribution centre, at the planning application stage. This plant now provides the London area with a large proportion of its asphalt requirements.

Liebherr - Great Britain Limited, HQ

When Liebherr were building their new UK headquarters facility they asked Spectrum to help negotiate a planning change, which involved replacing an earth bund with an Acoustic Screen, and thereby increase their storage and display yard area. We undertook computer noise modelling of earthmoving and crane activity in the yard and showed that an acoustic screen would provide more attenuation than the consented earth bund. We submitted a technical report to the local authority to support this. Agreement was reached with the Authority to allow these changes to the consented design; a larger yard was constructed and the acoustic screen installed.

Unipart Logistics, Oxford

When Unipart installed a large complex automatic conveyor system for their Cowley distribution facility, Oxford, they found generated noise levels to be high. Spectrum was appointed to carry out a noise measurement and reduction study to reduce noise levels to staff and improve speech intelligibility and communication. Our report advised some modifications to parts of the conveyor system and also the introduction of under-roof sound absorption treatment.

Wetherspoon DHL National Distribution Centre, Daventry

Spectrum worked on the initial design of this new facility which distributes dry, chilled and frozen products to its pubs. We modelled expected noise from its activities; developed optimised noise control solutions and on completion carried out tests to confirm noise targets had been achieved. Later a planning application for new housing adjoining the site was made by a Developer. Wetherspoon asked us to prepare a report to ensure that the proximity of housing wouldn’t constrain their operations. Our report made recommendations for improvements in the sound insulation design of the housing facades which the local authority accepted and then required the Developer to implement.

Royal Mail Sorting and Delivery Centres

We supported Royal Mail in advising on occupational noise and environmental noise to the residential community, on a large number of new Sorting and Local Delivery Office developments in the southeast of England. We ensured noise from new mechanical services met local authority noise policies. Part of this process involved presenting details of noise reduction schemes to Royal Mail employees, particularly when acoustic treatment was being incorporated within large working areas to both reduce the hazards of high noise levels and to improve speech communication between staff.