Noise objections delaying approval?

We resolve them with BS4142/BS8233 Noise Impact Assessments, mitigation design, and council/EA liaison.

Independent reports led by Chartered engineers

Environmentally Sound Limited provides independent Noise Impact Assessments (NIA) that unlock approvals for developments in Milton Keynes and within a 30-mile radius. Each project is led by our Chartered Mechanical & Acoustic Engineers, and we bring in trusted specialists when required — ensuring every assessment is accurate, defensible, and tailored to the problem at hand.

What is a Noise Impact Assessment?

An NIA evaluates how your scheme affects nearby receptors — and how existing noise sources affect your site. Local Planning Authorities (LPA) and Environmental Health Officers (EHO) frequently require an NIA before granting approval.

What our assessment includes

Baseline monitoring using precision sound level meters.
Prediction of operational and construction noise using accepted calculation and modelling methods.
Assessment against BS4142, BS8233, NPSE, and NPPF.
Practical mitigation: acoustic glazing, barriers/bunds, layout optimisation, operational limits, and (where appropriate) engineering refinements at source.
Stakeholder liaison: we engage early with councils and the Environment Agency to agree scope and avoid rework.

When you’ll need an NIA

Residential developments (demonstrate BS8233 internal noise criteria).
Industrial/commercial sites (plant/deliveries assessed under BS4142).
Transport exposure (road, rail, aircraft) for new buildings.
Mixed-use schemes combining housing with retail/leisure.

For major schemes, the NIA may form part of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

Why choose Environmentally Sound

Led by Chartered engineers with 29 years’ experience in acoustics, vibration, and mechanical design.
A flexible consultancy model — we assemble the right specialists for each project, ensuring the exact expertise you need without unnecessary overheads.
Local expertise across Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bedford, Northampton, Aylesbury, and Luton.
Reports routinely accepted by Milton Keynes Council, Bedford Borough Council, Central Bedfordshire Council, and Buckinghamshire Council.
Independent and insured consultancy for robust, impartial reporting.

If predicted noise is too high

Low-noise plant specification and acoustic enclosures.
Barriers/bunds, screening, and source–receiver re-layout.
Enhanced façades: acoustic glazing and attenuated ventilation.
Operational controls and timing restrictions.

Cost and timescale

Typical NIAs start from £800 (scope and monitoring drive cost).
Delivery aligned to planning submission deadlines.

Local example — Newport Pagnell

BS4142 noise assessment for an air source heat pump (ASHP)

Initial MCS020 application was refused for exceeding permissible sound limits.
We completed baseline monitoring (Rion NL-53) and prepared a BS4142 report.
Result: ASHP was 6 dB below background at the nearest receptor.
Planning permission granted by Milton Keynes Council within two weeks of submission.

Key standards & guidance

BS8233 — Guidance for residential/internal criteria.
BS4142 — Rating/assessing industrial & commercial sound.
NPSE & NPPF — National policy context.
Planning Practice Guidance – Noise.

Contact

Submitting a planning application in Milton Keynes or within 30 miles? A robust Noise Impact Assessment will help ensure compliance and avoid costly delays.

Contact Environmentally Sound

Written by Chartered engineers at Environmentally Sound Limited.