Corstorphine Community Centre

Background:

The Corstorphine Community Centre (CCC) project focuses on transforming a former office building into a vibrant community space that aligns with Scotland's NPF4 policy goals, particularly those supporting health, well-being, and social connectivity. Located on Kirk Loan in a mixed-use area near St. John’s Road, the center will offer varied services and activities, including fitness studios, community events, dementia support, and business workspaces.

Given the location's residential adjacency and extended operational hours, MR Acoustics was commissioned to conduct a comprehensive Noise Impact Assessment (NIA) to ensure that the center’s activities meet City of Edinburgh Council’s noise standards and limit potential disturbances to nearby residents.

Objective:

The primary objective of this Noise Impact Assessment was to evaluate potential noise impacts from the Corstorphine Community Centre’s activities on nearby residential properties and ensure compliance with the City of Edinburgh Council’s NR15 noise standard. This involved measuring the existing acoustic performance of the building, predicting noise breakout from proposed community spaces and developing tailored mitigation strategies to meet with the Local Authorities noise criteria.

Results & Findings:

The assessment revealed that noise from first-floor fitness and dance studios, particularly amplified sounds, could exceed acceptable levels at nearby residences without mitigation. To address this, MR Acoustics recommended high-performance glazing and set noise limits within rooms to reduce breakout noise. On the ground floor, which includes quieter community and retail spaces, the existing masonry wall provides a natural sound barrier; however, it was advised to keep windows closed during high-activity periods and install sound-rated ventilators to maintain air flow. By implementing these targeted measures, the community center is positioned to meet the NR15 noise criteria, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding residential area.

Conclusion:

The Noise Impact Assessment has established that, with the recommended acoustic upgrades, the Corstorphine Community Centre can successfully meet the City of Edinburgh Council’s noise standards, minimising any disturbance to nearby residents. By implementing enhanced glazing, sound-rated ventilation, and room noise limits, the centre will be able to operate as a vibrant community hub while maintaining a peaceful environment for its neighbours. This assessment supports the centre’s sustainable, community-focused design and demonstrates how carefully considered acoustic strategies can balance the requirements for a much-needed community hub without detrimentally impacting neighbouring properties.

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