Why choose us?
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We are a leading independent acoustic consultancy.
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Our consultants are highly educated, dedicated and provide highly practical and pragmatic design advice.
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We can provide an alternative solution to costly projects, with very fast turnarounds on time-sensitive projects.
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We are dedicated to bringing you the best possible service in every way. You can trust us with your project, and we will work hard for you until it's done.
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Our clients always come first. Our acoustic consultants provide a bespoke, friendly and technically robust service to all.
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We offer a wide range of consultancy services, to ensure all your needs are met and specific requirements are achieved.
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We provide highly competitive pricing, and an unrivalled quality of service. Our acoustic consultants aim to minimise stress when trying to gain planning permission and achieve performance requirements.
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What do we do?
At Clear Acoustic Design our primary focus is to help create commercially viable projects but without compromising on quality or standards. In order to do this, our solutions can be tailored specifically for each project based on its needs and requirements, whether it requires planning permission from your local authority or an acoustic design assessment for Building Regulation compliance prior to construction commencing.
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We offer professional advice and solutions to noise, vibration and other acoustical problems from concept design, through to construction & commissioning, noise monitoring/assessment, as well as providing trouble shooting services for any problem that arises during your projects.
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If you're looking to design the acoustics of a building, or assess, reduce and control noise levels for any situation, then give us a call on 0330 043 5493, or email us at info@clearacousticdesign.com for more information about the services we offer.​
Acousticians are becoming more and more in demand as people become more aware of the importance of acoustics in residential, industrial and commercial settings. At Clear Acoustic Design Ltd, we have many years of experience in undertaking projects of all shapes and sizes, so you can be sure that you're in good hands.
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We know that dealing with planning authorities can be a challenging process, but our team is here to help you every step of the way. We'll work tirelessly to ensure that you get the best possible outcome from your acoustic consultant services, with minimum stress involved. Contact us today for more information or to discuss your requirements!
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Our acoustic designers are based throughout the United Kingdom, making them easily accessible for on-site consultations. We understand that each project is unique, so we take a tailored approach to every job we undertake. Our goal is always to provide a professional, top quality service that meets your specific needs.
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When it comes to selecting the right acoustic consultant for your needs, it is important to know that all of our consultants and sound surveyors are certified by the Institute of Acoustics. We want you to have peace of mind knowing that you're working with some of the best in the industry.
0330 043 5493 info@clearacousticdesign.com
We are at Your Service!
Types of Acoustic Consulting
and Acoustic Engineering Work
There are many different types of consulting work that an acoustic consultant may be involved in. Some of these include:
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Architectural acoustics: This is the study and control of sound within architecture. An acoustic consultant may be involved in the design of a new building, or the renovation of an existing one, to ensure that it meets the correct acoustical standards.
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Audio engineering: This involves the recording, manipulation, and reproduction of sound. An audio engineer may work on projects such as recording music or designing sound systems for events or venues.
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Environmental noise: Noise from traffic, industry, and people can have a significant impact on our quality of life. An environmental noise consultant assesses this noise and recommends ways to reduce it in an acoustics report.
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Noise control and product sound: Many products produce unwanted noise when used or operated. A noise control consultant can help to reduce this noise by recommending changes to the product design or by specifying appropriate materials and finishes.
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Musical and studio acoustics: Acoustic consultants often work with musicians to create music rooms and performing arts spaces that are perfect for musical performance - whether it's a small recording studio or a large concert hall design!
Are Your Acoustic Consultants Suitably Qualified?
When you're looking for an acoustic consultant, it's important to make sure that they are suitably qualified. This means that they must be a full member of the Institute of Acoustics (MIOA) and have appropriate qualifications to be classed as a 'suitably qualified acoustician'.
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This is important because it ensures that you're working with someone who has the proper training and experience to help you with your noise issues.
This also ensures that the key decision makers will accept the conclusions put forward in the noise report or planning submission. Make sure to ask your consultant about their qualifications so that you can be sure that you're making the best decision for your project or business.
What Planning or Building Regulations Requirements Can a Noise Consultant Help With?
An acoustic consultant can help with the planning process, and the detailed design and construction of a project. They are experts in architectural acoustics and environmental noise reduction as well as cost-effective soundproofing techniques, which helps to limit the sound levels transferring between spaces.
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In the planning stage, an acoustic consultant can assess a project's noise problems and recommend appropriate solutions to reduce or eliminate this problem, which may include specifying different materials for construction or recommending a different building layout, or site position.
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Acoustic consultants are highly experienced in the detailed design of a project to ensure that it is designed and constructed in such a way as to produce the desired outcome in terms of noise reduction and sound insulation. Approved Document E of the Building Regulations provides the acoustic requirements, which we follow when designing the sound insulation of residential buildings and the acoustics of schools (BB93) and higher educational buildings.
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Acoustic consultants also carry out workplace noise surveys and provide expert witness reports which can be used in legal proceedings if necessary to prove that the correct procedures were followed during the planning, construction or design stages of a project.
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What Is The Process for Acoustic Consultancy and Successful Planning Applications?
If you're planning to build or install something new, the Local Planning Authority may request an acoustic survey and acoustic report to be carried out before granting permission. This is to ensure that the development will not have a negative impact on the local area in terms of noise.
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There are two common types of surveys which may be required - BS8233 and BS4142. The former relates specifically to transport noise affecting new residential developments, while the latter covers all other sources of industrial and commercial noises affecting noise sensitive areas.
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Both types of survey are used to verify that the proposed development complies with certain policies laid out in legislation such as the National Planning and Policy Framework and Noise Policy Statement for England.
It's important to note that these surveys aren't just conducted during new builds - they can also be requested if you're making changes to an existing site, or installing new equipment.
​Our Clients Include
We've had the opportunity to work with a vast variety of clients in many different sectors of the UK. This has given us a wide range of experience and expertise that we can bring to your project. Our client lists include:
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Architects
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Planning Consultants
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Developers
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Project Managers and Design Consultants
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Major Building Contractors
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Small Independent Builders
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Restaurants and Takeaways
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Housing Associations
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Venue operators
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Small, Medium, and Large, Commercial and Industrial Facilities​
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Government Organisations
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Charities
Service Areas
Clear Acoustic Design Ltd provides a wide range of acoustic consultancy services to clients across the United Kingdom.
We have a great team of experienced and qualified acoustic consultants who are strategically located in various cities so that we can provide our services quickly and efficiently to our clients.
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We currently have acoustic consultants serving Greater London, Birmingham, Bristol, Wales and Devon and we can provide our low-cost acoustic design services to the Midlands, the entire South of the UK, and all of Wales.
Our team of acoustic consultants are experts in acoustics and noise and can help you with all your acoustic needs wherever you are located.
Get in Touch!
If you're interested in learning more about the services offered by Clear Acoustic Design, be sure to request a callback by using one of our contact forms, by sending an email, or by giving us a call. Our team will provide you with all of the information you need, including costs and turnaround time.
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We understand that it can be difficult to make a decision without knowing more about what's available and fully understanding the process. We want you to feel confident in your choice, and we believe that our team is the best option for your needs.
0330 043 5493 info@clearacousticdesign.com
We are at Your Service!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Acoustic Consultant?
An acoustic consultant is a professional who helps individuals, businesses, and organisations control environmental and industrial noise levels, and also provides architectural design support to architects, contractors and design teams when designing buildings.
Acoustic consultants can also be referred to as acoustic engineers or noise consultants and normally have years of experience in undertaking projects of all shapes and sizes, so they can provide bespoke surveys and advice that meets your specific requirements.
Some of the services an acoustic consultant offers include:
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Noise impact assessments to BS4142 and BS8233
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Environmental noise surveys for all proposed developments and planning applications
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Architectural acoustic design for all building types
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Noise at work assessments for HSE compliance
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Construction noise assessments and mitigation
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Sound insulation testing, site support, and site handover services
What is the Difference Between an Acoustic Consultant and a Sound Engineer?
An acoustic consultant typically has a broader range of experience compared to a sound engineer, and deal with all aspects of noise and sound. They are experts in noise, sound, and vibration issues, in buildings, workplaces, and the environment, and can ensure you adhere to any legal and planning requirements, British Standards, Building Regulations, and noise-related architectural, occupational noise, and mechanical noise requirements.
A sound engineer typically works more on the design/operation of sound/audio systems that produce audio signals for purposes such as broadcasting, recording, or live performance.
Can an acoustic consultant help with anything related to noise and sound? Yes! Acoustic experts and acoustic specialists offer acoustic advice for any situation that helps clients achieve the acoustic outcomes they want.
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How Do I know if I Need an Acoustic Consultant?
It can be difficult to know if you need an acoustic consultant, but here are some common indications:
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You have a problem with noise ingress from outside, or within the building (e.g. industrial/commercial noise, traffic noise, aircraft noise)
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You are planning to create a new industrial/commercial noise source, or install new mechanical ventilation/cooling/heating plant, and require a noise assessment to gain paining permission.
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You are designing a new building and need to comply with the Building Regulations, acoustic planning conditions, or any other acoustic design requirements.
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You are changing the use of an existing building and need an acoustic assessment to gain planning permission.
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You have problems with the sound/noise in your offices or workplace, such as background noise or excessive reverberation.
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To learn more about noise control and acoustic design for your new or existing school or college buildings.
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If Staff are exposed to fairly loud levels of noise in your facility, and a noise risk assessment is required.
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If you want to soundproof a room in your home or business premises.
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Your development is complete and you need acoustic testing, or noise measurements to demonstrate compliance.
What Qualifications do I Need to be an Acoustic Consultant or Noise Engineer?
An acoustic consultant will usually be educated to degree level, with a focus on Maths and Physics, but there are now many options available, including apprenticeships, through the Institute of Acoustics.
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See the following links to the IOA website:
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https://www.ioa.org.uk/careers/what-educational-qualifications-do-i-need
https://www.ioa.org.uk/news/technician-apprenticeship-scheme-2022
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What does a typical day look like for an acoustic consultant?
A typical day for an acoustic consultant can be unpredictable. They often need to balance the demands of their clients with meeting deadlines. They also can't predict when they will receive urgent requests for information.
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An acoustic consultant typically spends their day working with their clients and design teams to provide sound and acoustic advice for various construction projects and planning applications.. They may also spend time conducting noise monitoring, site visits and inspections, and preparing technical concise reports. This helps clients achieve the necessary planning permissions and meet the clients requirements for their projects.
What is Building Acoustics?
Building acoustics is all about how sound interacts within a building. The basic principles behind this are the same whether you want to design a hospital, school or apartment block. Acoustic design need to be considered at an early stage in order to control noise and reverberation and achieve the desired design targets. Designing buildings for good acoustic performance is all about working with architects and other consultants to control the routes that sound might take - so as not to create a nuisance for people inside or outside of the building. Flanking routes must be controlled in order to avoid creating an acoustical noise problem in adjacent noise sensitive areas, that's where an experienced acoustic engineer comes in!
What is Environmental Noise?
Environmental noise refers to all noise that is created in the external environment and could come from a wide variety of noise sources. Environmental noise pollution is a big concern for many people, and it can have a significant impact on our daily lives. Excessive noise can cause stress, sleep problems, and heart disease. It can also lead to decreased productivity and hearing loss. In order to combat the negative effects of noise pollution, it's important to understand what causes it so it can be understood and mitigated. Some common sources of noise in the environment include road/rail traffic, construction, mechanical plant equipment, and aircraft. Local Planning Authorities are responsible for the level of noise in an area and taking steps to mitigate any negative impacts. They work with developers and other stakeholders to request noise impact assessments that take into account all environmental factors and noise sources to ensure that the noise levels at noise sensitive receptors is suitable.