Noise and Licensing
The provision of entertainment for patrons in pubs and clubs is traditional and is an important part of community life. In many cases, entertainment is an important business function but, if poorly managed, can also lead to noise nuisance, sometimes affecting residential dwellings.
The main source of noise associated with pubs and clubs is musical entertainment, although noise can also originate from patrons using beer gardens, patrons leaving premises, storage areas and plant.
Many local authorities, under the requirements of the 2003 Licensing Act, recommend preparation of a noise management policy, which assesses likely acoustic impacts and sets out noise mitigation measures to reduce any potential disturbance. This policy would form the basis of the control of noise from entertainment and patrons and should ensure that all staff adopt a consistent approach to noise control.
Reference to issues such as internal music level, window construction, type of performances and music, use of in house sound system only, restrictions of use of outdoor areas in the evenings are normally included.
24 Acoustics works with individual licensees, pub chains and licensing solicitors to provide noise impact assessments for licensing applications and hearings and to reduce noise emission from licensed premises when noise disturbance is caused.