Noise assessments

Request noise assessments carried out for a named development or area.

Noise assessments are carried out as part of planning applications for developments that may generate significant noise, such as wind farms, industrial sites, music venues, or major roads. They are also produced for noise action plans under the Environmental Noise Directive.

Dear [AUTHORITY NAME], Please provide the following information relating to [DEVELOPMENT OR AREA NAME]. 1. Any noise impact assessments submitted or commissioned. 2. The predicted noise levels at the nearest sensitive receptors (e.g. homes, schools). 3. Any noise conditions attached to the planning consent or licence. 4. Any monitoring results showing actual noise levels after the development became operational. I would prefer to receive this by email. Yours faithfully, [YOUR NAME]
Back to top ↑

Who to send it to#

Your local council’s planning or environmental health department. Find the right authority on the Commissioner’s directory of Scottish public authorities. You can also send your request through WhatDoTheyKnow, which publishes responses online.

Back to top ↑

Tips#

  • This is environmental information under the EIR. You do not need to give a reason for your request.
  • If you are asking about a specific planning application, include the reference number to help the authority locate the documents quickly.
  • Noise conditions are often expressed in technical units (dB LAeq). If the response is hard to interpret, ask the council to explain what the limits mean in practice.