Project Status: Completed
Service: Acoustic Design
Our client (Gym operator) commissioned an extensive Noise Impact Assessment for their proposed new fitness studio located near Old Street in London. The site currently operates as a gym with residential flats above it, allowing moderate music playback. Our client plans to introduce two new fitness studios within the space, where higher levels of music playback are expected. The primary aim of the assessment was to ensure that the increased noise levels would not adversely impact the noise-sensitive residential areas situated above the new fitness studios/gym.
Background and Project Information
The proposed site at Old Street currently accommodates a gym with residential flats located directly above. Our client intends to refurbish this space into a modern fitness studio with two new fitness areas where higher volumes of music are integral to the workout experience. Given the residential nature of the upper floors, a thorough acoustic analysis was essential to identify and mitigate any potential noise disturbances.
Assessment Methodology
The assessment included on-site acoustic testing and analysis of the existing sound insulation between the gym and the adjacent residential flats. The sound level difference between the gym (source) and the residential flats (receptors) was measured to evaluate the current sound insulation performance. The typical activity source levels in the gym were also recorded at an existing facility operated by our client, in order to understand the noise levels generated during regular fitness classes.
Findings
The analysis revealed that the existing sound insulation between the proposed gym and the residential flats did not meet the required criteria for noise control. The current setup allowed significant noise transfer, which could potentially disturb the residents. Specifically, the noise levels generated by typical fitness activities, which included amplified music, were found to be significantly higher than acceptable thresholds.
Our reporting summarised the G values (a measure of sound insulation performance) achieved in various noise-sensitive residential rooms. All measured G values exceeded the maximum allowable G value criterion of G25, indicating a clear need for additional noise control measures.
Recommendations
To mitigate the noise impact, the assessment recommended the installation of a suspended acoustic ceiling designed to reduce noise transfer to the residential units above. This solution involves creating a ceiling grid with resilient hangers, a 200 mm air gap filled with 100 mm thick mineral wool insulation, and two layers of 15 mm thick SoundBloc plasterboard. This construction method aims to significantly enhance the sound insulation between the gym and the residential flats, thereby reducing the noise levels experienced by the residents to an acceptable standard. Additional advice in relation to column and wall linings was also provided alongside methods of isolating the loudspeakers to reduce flanking noise transmission.
Additionally, the report suggested maintaining the same operational hours as the existing gym, with no fitness classes past 9:30 pm to ensure compliance with daytime noise criteria only.
Conclusion
The Noise Impact Assessment concluded that with the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, the new fitness studios could operate without causing significant noise disturbances to the residential units above. The proposed suspended ceiling design is expected to provide the necessary sound insulation to meet the required noise criteria. Thus, the fitness studios can offer a high-energy workout environment while ensuring the comfort and peace of the residential occupants are not compromised.
This case highlights the importance of thorough acoustic planning in mixed-use developments, ensuring that commercial activities can coexist harmoniously with residential living spaces. The proactive approach by our client in commissioning this assessment and committing to the recommended noise control measures demonstrates a responsible and considerate development strategy.
PROPG
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