Acoustics case study

East Ham Party Wall S61 Application

Background
The East Ham Wall project involved the reconstruction of approximately 140m of TfL owned boundary wall between the operational railway line and approximately 20 residential gardens, off Shakespeare Crescent, in Newham.
While S61 consent had previously been granted by the London Borough of Newham, the works methodology and programme had changed sufficiently, such that a new S61 Application was required.
This would require a baseline noise survey and a commitment to monitor noise levels at the residential properties during construction works.
SRL were appointed to prepare the new S61 (Control of Pollution Act 1974) Application, and to undertake the noise monitoring during the approximate construction period of 6 months.

 

Challenge
Given the proximity of residential properties to the works, and that a significant amount of the works required to be undertaken during night-time and weekend periods (when trains were not running) the potential for disturbance was increased. In order to achieve S61 consent therefore, a robust demonstration and commitment to employing Best Practicable Means and managing consequent noise levels, was required.

 

Solution
A comprehensive baseline noise survey was undertaken to define existing ambient noise levels throughout weekday, weekend and night-time periods. This was used to establish appropriate construction noise threshold levels throughout all working time periods.
A 2.4m temporary barrier was incorporated into the noise prediction model, between the Shakespeare Crescent gardens and the work site.
A commitment was made to continuously measure noise levels during the works, at two separate locations. The equipment would be capable to issuing ‘alerts’, should measured levels approach or exceed defined threshold levels, enabling site staff to investigate the likely cause and implement further practicable measures to minimise disturbance.
The S61 Application was ultimately consented with no additional onerous conditions.