Jacksons Fencing showcases a range of high-performance fencing solutions designed to mitigate the effects of environmental noise pollution on residential developments

Urban expansion and redevelopment can result in a host of unwanted problems – not least environmental noise pollution. A recent report by the UK Chief Medical Officer reveals that exposure to constant noise leads to serious health issues, including chronic stress, hearing damage, hypertension, diabetes and even heart problems. Furthermore, nearly half of the respondents in a UK study reported their home life was spoiled by environmental noise, with road traffic being the most common culprit. Perhaps most surprisingly, 125 million europeans live with environmental noise levels above 55 decibels – the threshold at which negative health effects start to appear. So what can architects and developers do to combat this problem?

Stepped Jakoustic® Reflective fencing

A good example is Persimmon Homes’ Limes Place development of 19 family homes in Upper Harbledown, near Canterbury, Kent. The site lies close to the A2 carriageway linking Dover, Ramsgate and Margate to the M2 motorway. Traffic noise is therefore high, in stark contrast to the scheme’s idyllic countryside setting. Jacksons Fencing provided the solution to this common problem with its Jakoustic® Reflective fencing. Installed at the rear of the development, the aesthetically-pleasing timber barrier provides both a visual and acoustic barrier to the busy road. Positioned as close to the road as possible, and installed at the optimum height, the fence reflects sound generated by passing traffic away from the houses rather than allowing it to pass through or over the structure. In addition, the natural timber design blends in with the local environment, allowing residents to enjoy their surroundings.

Jakoustic® Plus, also from Jacksons Fencing, is able to ‘absorb’ unwanted sounds, and is best placed around confined noise sources, such as generators or loading depots. It can reduce noise pollution by up to 32 decibels – nearly 60 per cent of the level at which signs of health damage begin to show – and is particularly suited to new developments sited close to commercial properties and utility sites.

There are a range of innovative designs to choose from depending on the application. Along with acoustic commercial and highway fencing, there is Jakoustic® Class 3, an LPCB-approved, SR3-rated, dual-layer system that combines noise-resistance technology with high levels of security. The 12K Acoustic Envirofence® is ideal for applications where lower noise reduction or superficial mass is required. Jacksons Fencing also provides matching Jakoustic® timber or galvanised steel-framed gates for a totally integrated acoustic-fencing strategy.

Jakoustic® fencing with integrated automatic gate

All Jacksons acoustic solutions are made in the UK using premium quality timber. They come with a 25-year guarantee and can be relied on to reduce noise pollution, protect the environment and safeguard public health. Peter Jackson, Managing Director of Jacksons Fencing, said “With the UK’s ever-increasing population and the growth of the 24-hour economy, noise pollution isn’t going away anytime soon. We should all be looking for solutions to protect people in their homes and the workplace from its effects on health and productivity.” With over 70 years’ experience, Jacksons Fencing has the expertise to provide the best solutions for any fencing and access control challenge.

Contact Details

For more information, visit the Jacksons Fencing website or call 0800 408 47 39.