If your demolition, basement, piling or construction works are likely to generate significant noise or vibration, the local authority may request a Section 61 application before works begin. A well-prepared Section 61 application, supported by a Construction Noise Management Plan, can help contractors demonstrate how noise and vibration will be predicted, managed and mitigated in accordance with BS 5228.
For contractors, this is not simply a technical reporting exercise. A Section 61 application can be an important part of programme management, stakeholder communication and local authority approval. Preparing the right information early can reduce delays, avoid disputes and help demonstrate that Best Practicable Means are being used to control construction noise and vibration.
Need a Section 61 application or CNMP for upcoming construction works?
Clement Acoustics can prepare the construction noise, vibration and dust management plan, Section 61 application and advise on practical mitigation measures.
Why Contractors Need a Section 61 Application
The UK Control of Pollution Act 1974 provides a framework for controlling pollution from construction activities, including noise. Where demolition, construction or infrastructure works have the potential to cause significant environmental noise or vibration, the local authority may request that a Section 61 application is submitted before works commence.
A Section 61 application allows contractors to seek prior consent for the proposed construction methods, working hours and mitigation measures. This can provide a clearer agreed basis for carrying out noisy or vibration-generating works, particularly on constrained urban sites or projects close to residential, commercial, healthcare or educational receptors.
What Is a Section 61 Application?
A Section 61 application is a formal application made to the local authority seeking consent for construction works under Section 61 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974. It is typically used where construction noise or vibration may affect nearby sensitive receptors.
The application should demonstrate that suitable steps are being taken to minimise noise and vibration from the works. It will usually include details of the construction programme, plant items, working methods, working hours, predicted noise and vibration levels, and proposed mitigation measures.
How Does a Construction Noise Management Plan Support a Section 61 Application?
A Construction Noise Management Plan, often shortened to CNMP, explains how noise and vibration from construction works will be assessed, controlled and monitored. It supports the Section 61 application by setting out a practical management strategy for the works.
A CNMP will typically identify the proposed construction activities, programme durations, timeframes and nearby noise-sensitive receptors. It may also include baseline environmental noise surveys, construction noise predictions, 3D noise modelling, vibration assessment data and monitoring proposals.
When Might a Contractor Need a Section 61 Application or CNMP?
A Section 61 application or Construction Noise Management Plan may be required for projects involving demolition, piling, basement construction, groundworks, major refurbishment, night-time or weekend working, infrastructure projects, or works close to sensitive receptors.
These requirements are particularly relevant where the project involves high-noise plant, vibration-generating activities, extended working hours or a programme that could affect nearby residents or businesses over a sustained period.
BS 5228 Noise and Vibration Criteria for Construction Works
Construction noise and vibration are commonly assessed against BS 5228, Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites. This standard provides guidance on assessment methods, likely effects and practical measures to reduce noise and vibration from construction works.
For contractors, BS 5228 is important because it provides the technical basis for predicting construction noise and vibration levels, assessing the potential impact at nearby receptors and developing mitigation measures that can be presented to the local authority.
What Happens if Construction Noise or Vibration Limits Are Exceeded?
If exceedances are predicted, mitigation measures can be developed to reduce noise and vibration as far as reasonably practicable. These measures may include avoiding works outside normal working hours, moving noise-generating plant away from nearby receptors, using quieter methods or plant, installing temporary barriers, communicating regularly with neighbours, and carrying out long-term noise and vibration monitoring.
The level of mitigation required will depend on the predicted level of impact, the type of works, the proximity of sensitive receptors and the project programme.
How LANAF Risk Assessments Can Inform Mitigation
The London Authorities Noise Action Forum, commonly referred to as LANAF, provides guidance on the level of mitigation that may be appropriate for demolition and construction works. Its risk assessment approach considers site locality factors and works information to help identify the level of construction noise and vibration risk.
Risk Assessment A considers locality and site information, including programme duration, proximity to the nearest sensitive receptors, daytime ambient noise level and working hours. Risk Assessment B considers works information, including demolition, groundworks, piling, vibration-generating activities and street management. This can help contractors understand the level of mitigation and monitoring that may be expected.
How Clement Acoustics Can Help with Section 61 Applications and CNMPs
Clement Acoustics can support contractors, developers and project teams with the preparation of Section 61 applications, Construction Noise Management Plans, BS 5228 noise and vibration assessments, and construction mitigation strategies.
Our work can include baseline noise surveys, identification of nearby noise-sensitive receptors, construction noise predictions, construction vibration assessments, 3D noise modelling where required, liaison with local authorities, mitigation strategies for demolition, piling, groundworks and extended-hours working, and long-term noise and vibration monitoring.
We have experience supporting S61 applications in London, Manchester and across the United Kingdom, from large-scale developments to smaller basement and refurbishment projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Section 61 application before starting construction works?
You may need a Section 61 application if the local authority considers that your works could cause adverse construction noise or vibration. This is more likely for demolition, piling, basement works, night-time works or construction close to sensitive receptors.
What is included in a Section 61 application?
A Section 61 application typically sets out the proposed construction activities, working hours, plant items, predicted noise and vibration levels, nearby sensitive receptors and proposed mitigation measures.
Is a CNMP the same as a Section 61 application?
No. A Construction Noise Management Plan supports the Section 61 application by explaining how construction noise and vibration will be assessed, managed and mitigated.
What standard is used for construction noise and vibration assessments?
Construction noise and vibration are commonly assessed using BS 5228, which provides guidance on the control of noise and vibration from construction and open sites.
Speak to an Acoustic Consultant
If you are a contractor, developer or project manager preparing for demolition, piling, basement or construction works, Clement Acoustics can prepare a Section 61 application and Construction Noise Management Plan to support local authority approval. Contact our acoustic consultants to discuss your programme, site constraints and likely noise and vibration requirements.
Get in Touch
If you’re apart of a large infrastructure project, Clement Acoustics are experts in assisting with the noise and vibration design. Contact Clement Acoustics today to discuss your project.