Planning

The starting point for all building projects is to obtain planning permission and this involves an environmental noise survey. Planning Policy Guidance 24 {PPG 24) gives guidance to local authorities in England on the use of their planning powers to minimise the adverse impact of noise. Although PPG 24 is quite broad in scope its principle use is in the determination of planning applications for residential or other noise-sensitive developments that will be exposed to existing noise sources. Some local authorities also require that a sound insulation scheme to meet the requirements of BS:8233 is submitted as part of the planning application. PDA`s consultants generally involve the local environmental health officer throughout the survey and design process in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises when the application is heard.