Soundscape design has been defined as a participatory, people-focused approach to acoustic design, concerning both the acoustic environment and any non-acoustic factors that may affect how people perceive and experience sound. This is a different approach to that traditionally taken in noise assessments for planning, where the focus is minimisation of all noise, even that which could be considered desirable.

Current legislation and guidance in England does not specifically require soundscape to be considered. Good acoustic design is promoted in the ProPG (guidance used for most contemporary residential developments), which aims to protect people from the harmful effects of noise. Protection from these harms is key, but does not take into account the wider need for positive and tranquillity-promoting environments to be developed.

The Welsh Government has recently adopted a Noise and Soundscape Action Plan calling for the creation of appropriate soundscapes, defined by the plan as ‘the right acoustic environment in the right time and place’.

This shift in focus could potentially progress across the rest of the UK, with policy in England and Wales containing a similar sentiment in future. This would result in the need for a more consultation-based approach to the acoustic design of new residential schemes, where the potential occupants are actively involved in the acoustic design of their homes, with a focus on enhancing subjectively wanted sounds while reducing those that are unwelcome.

The Institute of Acoustics has stated the following with regard to the new guidance:

‘Although the document introduces the concept of soundscape into Government policy, it is important to recognise that this should be regarded as a first step. There is the scope for more guidance, one key point being the users' involvement in the management and design of the acoustic environments. The action plan provides a framework for such involvement and could include recommendations for public awareness and engagement campaigns, establishment of noise and soundscape local action teams, etc.’

The guidance displays a potential shift of thinking with regard to acoustic design in planning. Consideration of soundscape will need to occur in the early stages of design, with thought given to the overall noise experience rather than simple noise reduction. Seeking expert advice at the masterplanning stage can often optimise a development and save time and money later on.

Further information

Contact Harry Russell-Lees or Philip Evans

Savills Planning