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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2560451 - F.I. Received Doc. - Noise Impact AssessmentNoise Impact Assessment 1 NOISE IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR SRAGH DISMANTLERS LTD AT SRA BALLYBAY CO. MONAGHAN Prepared for Sragh Dismantlers Ltd Prepared by Traynor Environmental Ltd Reference Number 26.252 TE Date of Issue 26th June 2026 Prepared in Response to: Monaghan County Council Further Information Request – Item 5 Traynor Environmental Ltd Belturbet Business Park, Creeny. Belturbet, Co Cavan T: + 353 49 9522236 E: nevin@traynorenv.ie www.traynorenv.ie RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 2 Client: Sragh Dismantlers Ltd Traynor Env Ref: 26.252 TE Status: Final Report Date: 26th June 2026 Report Title: Noise Impact Assessment Doc Reference: 26.252 TE Client: Sragh Dismantlers Ltd Authorised By: Nevin Traynor BSc. Env, H. Dip I.T, Cert SHWW, Certified Env Noise Assessor Environmental Consultant Rev No Status Date Writer Reviewer 1. Final 26th June 2026 Francis Mc Mahon Nevin Traynor This report refers, within the limitations stated, to the condition of the site and the information available at the time of preparation. No warranty is given regarding the possibility of future changes in site conditions or surrounding environmental circumstances. The report has been prepared using the information sources, survey data and documentation referenced herein and may be subject to review should additional information become available or if scientific understanding, guidance or regulatory requirements change in the future. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 3 CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 4 1.1 Terms of Reference 4 1.2 Site Location 5 1.3 Site Description 5 1.4 Existing Use 5 1.5 Proposed Development 5 1.6 Statement of Competence 6 2.0 GUIDELINES AND METHODOLOGY 7 2.1 Assessment Overview 7 2.2 Waste Facility Permit 7 2.3 Guidance Documents 7 2.4 Construction Phase Assessment 8 2.5 Construction Noise Criteria 8 2.6 Construction Vibration 8 2.7 Operational Phase Assessment 8 2.8 Summary 9 3.0 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT 9 3.1 Development Description 9 3.2 Background Noise Survey 10 4.0 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 14 4.1 Construction Phase 14 4.2 Operational Phase 14 5.0 POTENTIAL IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 15 5.1 Construction Phase – Noise 15 5.2 Construction Phase – Vibration 16 5.3 Operational Phase – Noise 16 5.4 Operational Phase – Traffic Noise 17 5.5 Construction Phase – Vibration 20 5.6 Construction Phase – Traffic 20 5.7 Operational Phase – Noise 20 5.8 Noise Model 22 6.0 MITIGATION MEASURES 24 6.1 Construction Phase Mitigation Measures 24 6.2 Operational Management Measures 25 7.0 RESIDUAL IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 26 7.1 Construction Phase 26 7.2 Operational Phase 26 7.3 Cumulative Impact 26 7.4 Overall Conclusion 26 8.0 MONITORING 27 8.1 Construction Phase 27 8.2 Operational Phase 27 9.0 CONCLUSION 28 RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 4 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Terms of Reference Traynor Environmental Ltd. has been commissioned by Sragh Dismantlers Ltd. to undertake a Noise Impact Assessment in response to a Further Information request issued by Monaghan County Council for the proposed development at Sra, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan. The Further Information request states as follows: 5. The Planning Authority note a Noise Impact Assessment carried out in October 2011 and a Noise Survey Report carried out in June 2017 have been submitted as part of this application. In order to carry out a comprehensive assessment of this appli- cation, the applicant is requested to: a) Submit an up-to-date detailed Noise Impact Assessment in relation to the proposed development carried out by a suitably qualified, independent consultant which:  Clearly outlines in detail appropriate measures proposed during the construction and operation phases of the pro- posed development to demonstrate that there will be minimal disturbance caused to any adjoining neighbours.  Outlines proposals to ensure that a noise nuisance does not arise at any of the adjoining residences as a result of the proposed development. Said proposals shall address all potential noise sources including external plant equipment, in/out vehicular movements and operations associated with loading/unloading of the aforementioned vehicles. Historical operational noise monitoring undertaken at the facility in 2011 and 2017 has also been reviewed as part of this assessment. These historical surveys demonstrated that operational noise emissions associated with the authorised facility re- mained within the applicable Waste Facility Permit daytime noise limit of 55 dB LAeq and confirmed the absence of tonal or impulsive noise emissions at nearby Noise Sensitive Locations. 1.2 Site Location The subject site is located approximately 3.13km southeast of Ballybay Town, Co. Monaghan. The site is located within a rural area and is surrounded predominantly by agricultural land. A number of residential dwellings are located within the wider vicinity of the site, some of which are occupied and some of which are unoccupied. The site is located on the L71001 local road, approximately 80m from the R180 Ballybay to Carrickmacross regional road. Figure 1 : Site Location Map RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 5 1.3 Site Description The subject site is located at Sra, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan and comprises an existing authorised commercial and waste facility associated with vehicle storage and end-of-life vehicle processing activities. The site is characterised by existing commercial structures, storage areas and associated yard space, together with adjoining areas proposed for extension and ancillary site works as part of the current application. The surrounding area is predominantly rural in character, comprising a mix of agricul- tural lands, dispersed one-off residential dwellings and established commercial/light industrial activity. The site is accessed via the local road network and benefits from an established history of commercial use under the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations 2007. 1.4 Existing Use The subject site currently comprises an existing authorised commercial and waste facility associated with vehicle storage and end-of-life vehicle processing activities. Existing development on site includes commercial storage structures, open yard areas, vehicle storage areas and associated ancillary infrastructure. 1.5 Proposed Development The proposed development consists of Retention Permission and Permission for the following:  Retention of an as-constructed storage extension and ancillary covered canopy attached to the existing commer- cial building;  Construction of a new single-storey portal-framed storage extension with associated covered canopy;  Provision of a new site entrance to replace the existing entrance, which will be permanently closed;  Provision of a permeable-surfaced storage area for depolluted end-of-life vehicles; and  All associated site development, drainage and ancillary works. The site relates to an activity authorised under the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 821 of 2007). This Noise Impact Assessment considers:  construction and operational noise impacts associated with the proposed development;  vehicular movements, loading/unloading activities and external operational noise sources;  nearby Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs); and  mitigation measures required to protect residential amenity. Historical environmental noise assessments undertaken at the facility in 2011 and 2017 were reviewed as part of this assess- ment and demonstrated compliance with applicable Waste Facility Permit operational noise limits together with the ab- sence of significant tonal or impulsive noise emissions at nearby residential receptors. The assessment has been undertaken in accordance with current EPA guidance documents and recognised best practice relating to environmental noise assessment. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 6 Figure 2: Proposed Site Layout 1.6 Statement of Competence In accordance with Article 5(3)(a) of the EIA Directive, by appointing Traynor Environmental Ltd., the applicant has en- sured that this report has been prepared by competent experts. In accordance with Environmental Protection Agency guidance, competent persons should possess a combination of technical knowledge, experience, and skills, and should be able to demonstrate both practical and theoretical com- petence. Competence may be demonstrated by reference to appropriate qualifications, professional membership of a recognised acoustic organisation and/or relevant professional experience. The monitoring and analysis of the data was conducted by Nevin Traynor of Traynor Environmental Ltd., who is deemed to be a competent person having regard to the criteria outlined by the EPA. The monitoring programme, data analysis and report preparation were carried out by Nevin Traynor, who is certified as competent in Environmental Noise Measurement by the Institute of Acoustics and has over 25 years’ experience in envi- ronmental and acoustic consultancy. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 7 2.0 GUIDELINES AND METHODOLOGY 2.1 Assessment Overview This Noise Impact Assessment evaluates the potential construction and operational noise impacts associated with the pro- posed development at Sra, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan. The assessment considers:  the existing receiving environment;  nearby Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs);  construction activities and associated traffic;  operational activities associated with the authorised facility; and  applicable standards, guidance documents and mitigation measures. The assessment methodology included:  baseline environmental noise monitoring;  review of historical operational monitoring data;  identification of nearby residential receptors;  assessment of construction and operational noise sources; and  consideration of mitigation measures designed to minimise potential impacts on nearby residential amenity. The assessment has been undertaken in accordance with recognised environmental noise guidance and best practice. 2.2 Waste Facility Permit Conditions 6.8 and 6.9 of the existing Waste Facility Permit state: Condition 6.8 Activities on-site shall not give rise to noise off-site, at noise sensitive locations, which exceed the following sound pressure limits: LAeq 55 dB(A) 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Mon–Fri) t = 30 mins LAeq 45 dB(A) 10:00 p.m. – 8:00 a.m. and weekends t = 30 mins Condition 6.9 There shall be no clearly audible tonal component or impulsive component in the noise emission from the activities on site at any noise sensitive location. The permit holder shall carry out a noise survey of the site operations if required by the Local Authority. The survey programme shall be undertaken in accordance with the methodology specified in the “Environmental Noise Survey Guidance Document” as published by the Agency. Historical operational monitoring undertaken at the site in 2011, 2015 and 2017 demonstrated compliance with the above operational noise limits. Measured daytime noise levels at nearby Noise Sensitive Locations ranged between approximately 42 dB LAeq and 55 dB LAeq during representative operational activities including vehicle loading and unloading operations, forklift activity and gen eral yard operations. Historical assessments also confirmed the absence of significant tonal or impulsive noise emissions associated with operational activities at the facility. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 8 2.3 Guidance Documents The assessment has been undertaken with reference to the following guidance documents and standards:  Monaghan County Development Plan 2025–2031;  EPA Guidance Note for Noise: Licence Applications, Surveys and Assessments in Relation to Scheduled Activities (NG4);  BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014 – Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites;  BS 4142:2014+A1:2019 – Methods for Rating and Assessing Industrial and Commercial Sound; and  ISO 1996-2:2017 – Acoustics – Description, Measurement and Assessment of Environmental Noise. 2.4 Construction Phase Assessment Construction noise impacts have been assessed having regard to the guidance contained within BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014 together with the proximity of nearby residential receptors. The principal sources of construction noise are expected to arise from:  Site preparation works;  General construction activities;  Construction plant and machinery; and  Deliveries and construction-related vehicle movements. Construction activities associated with the proposed development will be temporary and short-term in duration. No significant excavation, blasting or piling works are proposed as part of the development. Standard best practice construction management measures will be implemented throughout the construction phase in order to minimise potential noise disturbance. These measures include:  Restriction of working hours;  Proper maintenance of machinery and equipment;  Minimisation of unnecessary engine idling; and  Management of deliveries and vehicle movements. Construction works will generally be limited to normal daytime working hours. 2.5 Construction Noise Criteria Construction noise impacts have been assessed with reference to the threshold guidance values contained within BS 5228- 1:2009+A1:2014. Having regard to the measured baseline daytime ambient noise levels recorded during the unattended monitoring survey, which were generally below 65 dB LAeq,T, together with the rural character of the receiving environment and the proximity of nearby residential receptors, Category A threshold values as outlined within BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014 are considered appro- priate for the purposes of the assessment. Accordingly, the adopted construction noise threshold criterion for nearby residen- tial receptors is: • 65 dB LAeq,T during daytime construction periods. Construction activities will be temporary in nature and no regular night-time construction works are proposed. Based on the nature and scale of the proposed works, significant adverse construction noise impacts are not anticipated, subject to the implementation of standard mitigation measures. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 9 2.6 Construction Vibration Given the nature and scale of the proposed development, significant vibration impacts are not anticipated during the construction phase. No piling, blasting or other significant vibration-generating activities are proposed as part of the development. Best practice construction methods will be employed throughout the construction phase in order to minimise potential vibration impacts at nearby properties. 2.7 Operational Phase Assessment The operational assessment considers all potential noise sources associated with the proposed development including:  Vehicular movements to and from the site;  Loading and unloading activities;  External operational activities; and  Plant and equipment associated with the authorised waste facility operation. The operational assessment has been undertaken having regard to:  EPA NG4 guidance; and  BS 4142:2014+A1:2019, where appropriate. The proposed development relates to an established authorised commercial and waste facility operation and represents an extension and continuation of the existing authorised use of the site. Historical operational monitoring undertaken at the facility has demonstrated a long-standing history of compliance with applicable operational noise limits at nearby residential receptors. Subject to the implementation of the mitigation and operational management measures outlined within this report, the proposed development is not expected to give rise to significant adverse operational noise impacts or noise nuisance at nearby residential properties. 2.8 Summary Having regard to:  the nature and scale of the proposed development;  the established authorised commercial use of the site;  the historical operational compliance record of the facility; and  the mitigation measures proposed, it is considered that the proposed development can operate without giving rise to unacceptable noise impacts at nearby residential properties or the surrounding receiving environment. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 10 3.0 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT 3.1 Development Description The proposed development consists of Retention Permission and Permission for the following:  Retention of an as-constructed storage extension incorporating an ancillary covered canopy attached to the rear of the existing commercial property;  Construction of a new single-storey portal-framed storage extension incorporating an ancillary covered canopy attached to the side and rear of the existing commercial property;  Provision of a new site entrance onto the public road to replace the existing site entrance, which will be permanently closed;  Provision of a new permeable-surfaced storage area for the stacking of depolluted end-of-life vehicles; and  All associated site development and ancillary works. The site relates to an activity authorised under the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 821 of 2007) at Sra, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan. Figure 3: Layout of the proposed development 3.2 Background Noise Survey A baseline noise survey was undertaken in order to quantify the existing environmental noise climate surrounding the subject site. The survey was conducted generally in accordance with:  ISO 1996:2017 – Acoustics – Description, Measurement and Assessment of Environmental Noise; and  EPA Guidance Note for Noise: Licence Applications, Surveys and Assessments in Relation to Scheduled Activities (NG4). RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 11 The Noise Monitoring Locations (NMLs) are illustrated in Figure 4 below. Figure 4: Monitoring Locations NML1 and NML2 comprised unattended long-term noise monitoring locations operating between 14th April 2026 and 21st April 2026. Weather conditions during the survey period were generally dry and calm. All measurements were undertaken at a height of approximately 1.5m above local ground level. 3.2.1 Personnel and Instrumentation Nevin Traynor of Traynor Environmental installed and removed the monitoring equipment. Two Class 1 Larson Davis Sound Level Meters were utilised during the survey and calibrated both prior to and following com- pletion of the measurements. No significant calibration drift was identified. 3.2.2 Measurement Parameters The noise survey results are presented in terms of the following acoustic parameters:  LAeq: The equivalent continuous sound level. This parameter represents an average noise level over the measure- ment period and is commonly used to describe fluctuating environmental noise.  LA90: The sound level exceeded for 90% of the measurement period and typically used as a descriptor for back- ground noise conditions. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 12  LA10: The sound level exceeded for 10% of the measurement period and commonly used as an indicator of traffic- related noise.  LAFmax: The maximum sound pressure level recorded during the measurement period. The “A” suffix denotes that the sound levels have been A-weighted to account for the non-linear response of human hearing. 3.2.3 Survey Results The unattended long-term noise monitoring results for NML1 and NML2 are summarised in Tables 1 and 2 below. Table 1: Summary of unattended noise monitoring results Location LAeq (dB) LAFmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Period NML1 From the 14/04/2026 - 15/04/2026 47 59 48 39 Daytime 43 54 46 36 Nighttime NML1 From the 15/04/2026 - 16/04/2026 43 59 46 35 Daytime 40 52 43 34 Nighttime NML1 From the 16/04/2026 - 17/04/2026 43 59 45 34 Daytime 43 56 46 35 Nighttime NML1 From the 17/04/2026 - 18/04/2026 43 58 46 35 Daytime 40 52 42 33 Nighttime NML1 From the 18/04/2026 - 19/04/2026 43 60 46 33 Daytime 40 54 42 32 Nighttime NML1 From the 19/04/2026 - 20/04/2026 44 61 45 31 Daytime 42 52 43 32 Nighttime NML1 From the 20/04/2026 - 21/04/2026 44 58 45 35 Daytime 41 53 44 33 Nighttime NML1 From the 21/04/2026 - 22/04/2026 43 59 46 35 Daytime - - - - Nighttime NML1 Average 44 59 46 35 Daytime 41 53 44 34 Nighttime RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 13 Table 2: Summary of unattended noise monitoring results Location LAeq (dB) LAFmax (dB) LA10 (dB) LA90 (dB) Period NML2 From the 14/04/2026 - 15/04/2026 46 66 49 38 Daytime 44 66 47 35 Nighttime NML2 From the 15/04/2026 - 16/04/2026 45 66 48 36 Daytime 38 61 40 33 Nighttime NML2 From the 16/04/2026 - 17/04/2026 45 67 48 36 Daytime 47 68 49 37 Nighttime NML2 From the 17/04/2026 - 18/04/2026 44 65 46 36 Daytime 36 57 37 30 Nighttime NML2 From the 18/04/2026 - 19/04/2026 47 68 49 35 Daytime 38 58 38 27 Nighttime NML2 From the 19/04/2026 - 20/04/2026 44 66 46 30 Daytime 34 53 35 27 Nighttime NML2 From the 20/04/2026 - 21/04/2026 44 64 46 32 Daytime 37 56 38 30 Nighttime NML2 From the 21/04/2026 - 22/04/2026 46 67 49 37 Daytime - - - - Nighttime NML2 Average 45 66 48 35 Daytime 39 60 41 31 Nighttime The monitoring results indicate a generally low to moderate rural noise environment influenced by intermittent road traffic, agricultural activity and existing commercial operations within the wider area. Average daytime noise levels ranged between 44–45 dB LAeq, while average night-time levels ranged between 39–41 dB LAeq. Background sound levels (LA90) ranged between approximately 31–35 dB, indicating relatively quiet baseline condi- tions between intermittent noise events. The monitoring results are broadly consistent with historical environmental noise monitoring undertaken at the site in 2011 and 2017 and are considered representative of the existing receiving environment surrounding the proposed development. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 14 3.2.4 Historical Operational Noise Monitoring Historical environmental noise assessments undertaken at the site in 2011 and 2017 were reviewed as part of this assessment. The 2011 assessment undertaken by F.R. Mark & Associates included monitoring of representative worst-case operational ac- tivities associated with the authorised facility, including:  Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) loading and unloading operations;  Vehicle handling activities;  Forklift truck operations;  Mobile plant activity;  Workshop activities; and  Intermittent vehicle crushing operations. The assessment concluded that operational noise emissions associated with the facility remained within applicable daytime external noise criteria at nearby residential properties. Representative Measured Operational Noise Levels Activity Measured Level Boundary monitoring during operational activity 42.2 dB LAeq HGV loading/unloading activities at nearest residence 55.1 dB LAeq Background noise level at nearest residence 42.6 dB LA90 The 2017 environmental noise survey undertaken by Q.E.D. Engineering Ltd similarly concluded that operational noise emissions remained below the applicable Waste Facility Permit daytime operational limit of 55 dB LAeq. Measured daytime noise levels at nearby Noise Sensitive Locations ranged between 43 dB LAeq and 46 dB LAeq. The 2017 assessment also included a tonal noise assessment in accordance with ISO 1996-2 and concluded that no clearly audible tonal or impulsive noise emissions associated with the facility were present at nearby residential receptors. The findings of the historical assessments are con- sistent with the findings of the current 2026 assessment and demonstrate a long-standing history of operational compliance at the site. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 15 4.0 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT The proposed development comprises extensions and ancillary works associated with the continued operation of the existing authorised commercial and waste facility at Sra, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan. 4.1 Construction Phase The construction phase will involve:  site preparation and localised excavation works;  construction of the proposed storage extensions and canopy structures;  provision of the new site entrance; and  associated surfacing and drainage works. Construction activities will involve the use of standard construction plant and machinery including excavators, loaders, deliv- ery vehicles, cranes and hand-held equipment. Construction noise impacts are expected to be temporary and short-term in nature, with the highest potential impacts likely during initial site preparation and structural works. No piling, blasting or other significant vibration-generating activities are proposed. 4.2 Operational Phase Once operational, the development will function as part of the existing authorised facility operation. Operational activities will primarily comprise:  vehicle movements;  loading and unloading activities;  storage and movement of depolluted end-of-life vehicles; and  general yard and storage operations. The proposed development does not involve significant new industrial processing activities and represents an extension and continuation of the existing authorised use of the site. Historical operational monitoring has demonstrated compliance with applicable Waste Facility Permit operational noise limits at nearby residential receptors. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 16 5.0 POTENTIAL IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 5.1 Construction Phase – Noise 5.1.1 Closest Noise Sensitive Locations and Noise Thresholds The nearest Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs) comprise residential dwellings located within the surrounding rural area. Construction noise has been assessed with reference to BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014 together with the baseline environmental noise monitoring results outlined in Section 3. Having regard to the measured baseline daytime ambient noise levels, which were generally below 65 dB LAeq,T, Category A threshold values are considered appropriate for nearby residential receptors. Accordingly, an adopted daytime construc- tion noise criterion of 65 dB LAeq,T has been applied for the purposes of the assessment. The principal construction noise sources are expected to comprise:  site preparation works;  construction plant and machinery;  delivery and movement of materials; and  general construction activities. Predicted construction noise levels at nearby residential receptors are expected to remain generally within the adopted day- time construction noise criterion. Temporary short-duration increases in noise levels may occur during peak construction activities at the nearest residential receptors. However, such activities will be intermittent, temporary and controlled through the implementation of Best Practi- cable Means (BPM) in accordance with BS 5228-1. Construction works will generally be limited to normal daytime working hours, and significant adverse construction noise im- pacts are not anticipated. 5.1.2 Source Noise Levels The principal sources of construction noise are expected to arise from:  Site preparation and localised excavation works;  Construction plant and machinery;  Delivery and movement of materials;  Vehicle movements associated with construction activities; and  General construction and installation works. Typical plant and equipment likely to be utilised during the construction phase may include excavators, loaders, cranes, de- livery vehicles, generators and hand-held construction equipment. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 17 Construction activities associated with the proposed development will be temporary and short-term in duration. The highest potential noise impacts are likely to occur during the initial site preparation and construction stages due to the operation of mobile construction plant and machinery. No demolition works, blasting or piling activities are proposed as part of the development. 5.1.3 Construction Noise Sources Construction noise impacts will vary throughout the construction phase depending on:  The specific activities being undertaken;  The duration of works; and  The location of plant and machinery relative to nearby residential properties. Having regard to the scale and nature of the proposed development, construction noise impacts are expected to be tem- porary and localised in nature. Best practice construction management measures will be implemented throughout the construction phase in order to mini- mise potential noise disturbance. These measures will include:  Restriction of working hours to daytime periods;  Proper maintenance of plant and machinery;  Avoidance of unnecessary engine idling;  Management of deliveries and vehicle movements; and  Use of appropriate silencers and acoustic controls on equipment where necessary. Having regard to:  The temporary nature of the works;  The separation distances to nearby residential properties; and  The mitigation measures proposed, significant adverse construction noise impacts are not anticipated. Once the ground preparation and foundation works have been completed, a significant proportion of the remaining con- struction activities will involve manual labour and crane operations with lower overall noise emissions. 5.2 Construction Phase – Vibration The principal potential sources of vibration during the construction phase will be associated with standard site preparation works, excavation activities and general construction operations. No demolition works, blasting, piling or other significant vibration-generating activities are proposed as part of the development. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 18 Having regard to the nature and scale of the proposed works together with the separation distances to nearby residential properties, vibration levels associated with the construction phase are expected to remain well below thresholds associated with cosmetic or structural building damage as outlined within BS 5228-2. Accordingly, construction-related vibration impacts are expected to be temporary, localised and negligible in nature. 5.3 Construction Phase – Traffic During the construction phase, traffic associated with the proposed development will primarily comprise Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs), Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), construction plant and staff vehicles travelling to and from the site. Construction traffic will utilise the local road network and access the site via the proposed new site entrance. Having regard to the nature and scale of the proposed development, construction traffic volumes are expected to be rela- tively low and temporary in duration. Reference to recognised guidance indicates that a significant increase in traffic noise generally requires a substantial increase in traffic volumes. Having regard to the anticipated level of construction traffic associated with the proposed development, significant traffic noise impacts on the surrounding road network are not anticipated, having regard to the temporary nature of the construction phase and the relatively low anticipated increase in Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) movements associated with the development. Notwithstanding this, standard best practice construction management measures will be implemented throughout the con- struction phase in order to minimise potential disturbance associated with vehicle movements and deliveries. 5.4 Operational Phase – Noise Operational activities associated with the proposed development will primarily comprise:  vehicular movements;  loading and unloading activities;  forklift and mobile plant activity; and  general yard operations. The proposed development represents an extension and continuation of the existing authorised commercial and waste facility operation and does not involve significant new industrial processing activities. The monitored baseline noise environment indicates a low to moderate rural noise climate influenced by intermittent road traffic, agricultural activity and existing commercial operations within the wider area. Historical environmental noise assessments undertaken at the facility in 2011 and 2017 demonstrated compliance with appli- cable Waste Facility Permit operational noise limits at nearby residential receptors and confirmed the absence of significant tonal or impulsive noise emissions. A qualitative assessment has also been undertaken with reference to the general principles of BS 4142:2014+A1:2019. Measured daytime background sound levels (LA90) recorded during the current survey ranged between approximately 35 dB and 39 dB, while representative historical operational monitoring recorded daytime operational noise levels ranging be- tween approximately 42 dB LAeq and 55 dB LAeq during representative operational activities. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 19 Having regard to:  the intermittent nature of operational activities;  the daytime-only operational profile of the facility;  the separation distances to nearby residential receptors;  the absence of significant tonal or impulsive characteristics; and  the established authorised commercial use of the site, the operational noise emissions associated with the proposed development are not predicted to result in significant adverse impacts at nearby residential receptors. Operational activities will continue to operate in accordance with the applicable Waste Facility Permit daytime operational criterion of 55 dB LAeq. 5.4.1 Operational Noise Assessment – BS 4142 Review A qualitative assessment of operational noise emissions associated with the proposed development has been undertaken with reference to the principles of BS 4142:2014+A1:2019. The principal operational noise sources associated with the authorised facility comprise: • Vehicular movements; • Forklift activity; • Loading and unloading operations; and • General yard activity. Historical operational monitoring undertaken during representative operational activities recorded daytime operational noise levels ranging between approximately 42 dB LAeq and 55 dB LAeq at nearby residential receptors. Measured baseline daytime background sound levels (LA90) recorded during the current unattended monitoring survey ranged between approximately 35 dB and 39 dB. Having regard to: • the intermittent nature of operational activities; • the daytime-only operational profile of the facility; • the absence of significant tonal or impulsive characteristics; • the existing authorised commercial use of the site; and • the separation distances to nearby residential receptors, it is considered that the operational rating level associated with the development would not be expected to give rise to significant adverse impacts at nearby residential receptors in accordance with the general guidance principles of BS 4142:2014+A1:2019. Operational activities will continue to operate in compliance with the applicable Waste Facility Permit daytime operational criterion of 55 dB LAeq. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 20 5.5 Operational Phase – Traffic Noise Operational traffic associated with the proposed development will consist primarily of staff vehicles, customer vehicles and occasional Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) accessing and exiting the site during normal daytime operating hours. Traffic associated with the proposed development will utilise the existing local road network together with the proposed new site entrance. Having regard to the nature and scale of the proposed development and the existing authorised commercial activity at the site, the proposed development is not expected to result in a significant increase in traffic volumes on the surrounding road network. Accordingly, operational traffic noise impacts associated with the proposed development are expected to be negligible to minor in nature and not significant. Table 3: Indicative Construction Noise Levels Construction Activity Typical Plant / Equipment Indicative Noise Level at 10m (dB LAeq) Site Preparation Works Excavator / Loader / Dumper 72 – 78 dB General Construction Crane / Generator / Hand Tools 65 – 80 dB Surfacing and Entrance Works Roller / Delivery Vehicles 70 – 75 dB Estimated noise levels are based on standard distance attenuation and representative daytime construction activities. The predicted construction noise levels at nearby residential receptors are expected to remain generally below the adopted daytime construction noise criterion of 65 dB LAeq,T outlined within BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014. Construction activities associated with the proposed development will be temporary and short-term in duration and significant adverse construction noise impacts are not anticipated, subject to the implementation of standard best practice mitigation measures. Table 4: Description of Noise Measurement Location Noise Sensitive Locations Description NSL1 Residential dwelling located to the west of the proposed site approximately 286m from the nearest significant site works. NSL2 Residential dwelling located to the west of the proposed site approximately 310m from the nearest significant site works. NSL3 Residential dwelling located to the southwest of the proposed site approximately 190m from the nearest significant site works. NSL4 Residential dwelling located to the south of the proposed site approximately 56m from the nearest significant site works. NSL5 Residential dwelling located to the south of the proposed site approximately 62m from the nearest significant site works. NSL6 Residential dwelling located to the east of the proposed site approximately 111m from the nearest significant site works. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 21 Figure 5: Site Context & Noise Assessment Locations (Image Source: Google Maps) Predicted Noise Levels at Noise Sensitive Locations In order to assess the level of environmental noise associated with the proposed development, a number of nearby Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs) were identified and assessed. Figure 5 illustrates the relative position of the identified receptors in relation to the proposed development. Table 5 below presents the predicted daytime construction noise levels at the identified Noise Sensitive Locations during representative construction activities. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 22 Table 5: Indicative Construction Noise Levels at Nearest Noise Sensitive Locations Construction Activity Typical Plant / Equipment LAeq at distance (m) NSL1 NSL2 NSL3 NSL4 NSL5 NSL6 286m 310m 190m 56m 62m 111m Site Preparation Works Excavator / Loader / Dumper 49dB 48dB 53dB 63dB 62dB 57dB General Construction Crane / Generator / Hand Tools 51dB 50dB 55dB 65dB 64dB 59dB Surfacing and Entrance Works Roller / Delivery Vehicles 46dB 45dB 50dB 60dB 59dB 54dB 5.7 Noise Model Predicted construction noise levels were determined using SoundPLAN Version 9.0 environmental noise modelling software. The construction noise model was based upon representative sound power levels for typical construction plant derived from BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014 reference data and published acoustic source information. The assessment incorporated:  hemispherical propagation;  standard distance attenuation;  conservative worst-case plant operation assumptions;  representative source and receptor heights; and  relative separation distances between construction activities and nearby Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs). The assessment was undertaken on a conservative basis and did not assume significant screening effects associated with buildings, local topography or temporary barriers unless otherwise stated. The highest predicted construction noise levels are associated with temporary peak construction activities occurring closest to NSL4 and NSL5, with predicted worst-case daytime noise levels of approximately 65 dB LAeq,T and 64 dB LAeq,T respectively. These predicted impacts are temporary, localised and short-term in nature and are not predicted to result in significant adverse construction noise effects subject to the implementation of Best Practicable Means (BPM). RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 23 Figure 6: Indicative Daytime Lden and Night-time Lnight Noise Levels Across the Development Figure 7: Indicative Daytime Noise Levels Across the Development RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 24 Figure 8: Indicative Night-time Noise Levels Across the Development RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 25 6.0 MITIGATION MEASURES 6.1 Construction Phase Mitigation Measures Best Practicable Means (BPM) will be implemented throughout the construction phase in accordance with BS 5228-1 and BS 5228-2:2009+A1:2014 in order to minimise potential noise and vibration impacts at nearby residential receptors. Mitigation measures will include:  restriction of construction activities to daytime working hours;  proper maintenance of plant and equipment;  minimisation of unnecessary engine idling;  management of deliveries and vehicle movements;  use of appropriate silencers and acoustic controls where necessary; and  implementation of appropriate site management procedures. Construction activities and mitigation measures will be monitored periodically throughout the construction phase, and any complaints will be investigated and addressed as necessary. 6.1.1 General Construction Measures  Construction activities will generally be restricted to normal daytime working hours: o 07:00–18:00 Monday to Friday (unless otherwise agreed in writing with Monaghan County Council) o 08:00–14:00 Saturdays.  No regular Sunday or Public Holiday working is proposed.  Any works required outside standard working hours will be temporary in nature and undertaken in consultation with  Monaghan County Council where required.  Site personnel will be instructed in noise awareness and best practice construction methods.  Construction activities will be planned and managed to minimise unnecessary noise generation and prolonged high-noise activities. Deliveries and vehicle movements will be coordinated to minimise disturbance at nearby residential properties. 6.1.2 Plant and Equipment  All plant and equipment will comply with the requirements of EC Directive 2000/14/EC relating to permissible noise emissions.  Plant and machinery will be properly maintained and fitted with appropriate silencers, mufflers, or acoustic covers where necessary.  Machinery will be switched off when not in use and unnecessary engine idling will be avoided.  Where practicable, stationary plant will be positioned away from nearby residential boundaries.  Where feasible, quieter construction methods and equipment will be utilised. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 26 6.1.3 Vehicle Movements  Construction traffic will generally be limited to daytime working hours.  Construction vehicles will utilise the established local road network and proposed site entrance.  Vehicle engines will not be left idling unnecessarily.  Deliveries will be scheduled and managed to minimise congestion and unnecessary queueing near nearby resi- dential properties.  Internal haul routes and working areas will be maintained in good condition to minimise noise associated with vehi- cle movements. 6.1.4 Monitoring and Communication  Periodic site inspections will be undertaken during the construction phase to ensure the implementation of appropri- ate mitigation measures.  Any noise complaints received during the construction phase will be investigated and addressed, as necessary.  Construction activities and mitigation measures will be reviewed periodically to ensure continued application of Best Practicable Means (BPM). 6.2 Operational Phase Operational mitigation measures will include:  restriction of operational activities to normal daytime operating hours;  management of vehicle movements and loading/unloading activities;  maintenance of plant, equipment and yard surfaces;  minimisation of unnecessary vehicle idling and reversing movements;  use of broadband or non-tonal reversing alarms where practicable; and  investigation and corrective action in response to any noise complaints. Operational activities will continue to comply with the requirements of the existing Waste Facility Permit, including applicable operational noise limits. Activity Hours General Site Operations 08:00–18:00 Mon–Fri Saturday Operations 08:00–14:00 Loading/Unloading Daytime Only HGV Movements Daytime Only Night Operations None Proposed RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 27 6.2.1 Operational Management Measures The following operational mitigation and management measures will be implemented in order to minimise potential noise impacts at nearby residential properties:  Site activities will generally be restricted to normal daytime operating hours.  Vehicle movements and loading/unloading activities will be managed to minimise unnecessary noise generation.  External plant and equipment, where installed, will be appropriately selected, located and maintained to minimise operational noise emissions.  Vehicles will not be permitted to idle unnecessarily within the site.  Loading, unloading and storage activities will be undertaken in a controlled manner to minimise impulsive noise generation.  The proposed storage structures and canopy areas will provide partial screening and attenuation of operational activities.  Loading and unloading activities will generally be restricted to daytime operating periods.  Vehicle reversing alarms will be maintained in proper working order and, where practicable, broadband or non- tonal reversing alarm systems will be utilised in order to minimise potential disturbance at nearby residential properties.  Site roads and yard surfaces will be maintained in good condition to minimise vehicle body rattle and impact noise.  Any noise complaints received in relation to site operations will be investigated and corrective measures implemented where necessary.  Site operations will continue to comply with the requirements of the existing Waste Facility Permit, including applicable operational noise limits. Historical operational monitoring undertaken at the facility has demonstrated that existing operational activities have historically remained within applicable operational noise limits at nearby residential receptors. 6.2.2 Operational Traffic Operational traffic associated with the proposed development is expected to remain relatively low in nature and consistent with the established authorised commercial use of the site. The proposed new site entrance will provide improved vehicular access arrangements and facilitate the orderly movement of vehicles entering and exiting the site. Accordingly, significant operational traffic noise impacts are not anticipated. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 28 7.0 RESIDUAL IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 7.1 Construction Phase Construction noise impacts associated with the proposed development are predicted to be temporary, localised and short- term in nature. Subject to implementation of Best Practicable Means (BPM), significant adverse construction noise or vibration impacts are not anticipated. 7.2 Operational Phase Operational activities associated with the proposed development are consistent with the established authorised use of the site and are not predicted to result in significant adverse environmental noise impacts at nearby residential receptors. While temporary intermittent operational noise events associated with loading/unloading activities and vehicle movements may occur during daytime operational periods, such activities are characteristic of the authorised facility operation and are not predicted to result in significant adverse environmental noise effects. Historical environmental noise monitoring has demonstrated long-standing compliance with applicable Waste Facility Permit operational noise limits. 7.3 Cumulative Impact Significant cumulative noise impacts are not anticipated during either the construction or operational phases of the pro- posed development. 7.4 Overall Conclusion Subject to the mitigation measures outlined within this report, the proposed development is considered acceptable from a noise, residential amenity and planning perspective. 8.0 MONITORING 8.1 Construction Phase During the construction phase, periodic site inspections and, where necessary, noise monitoring will be undertaken at repre- sentative Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs) in order to verify the effectiveness of the mitigation measures outlined within this report. Monitoring, where required, will be undertaken in accordance with recognised best practice guidance including ISO 1996- 1:2016 and ISO 1996-2:2017. In the event of any noise complaints or particularly noise-intensive construction activities, additional monitoring and review of mitigation measures will be undertaken to ensure the continued implementation of Best Practicable Means (BPM) throughout the construction phase. 8.2 Operational Phase The proposed development will continue to operate in accordance with the requirements of the existing Waste Facility Per- mit, including the applicable operational noise limits. Given the nature and scale of the proposed development, together with the absence of significant new industrial pro- cessing activities, no specific routine operational noise monitoring is considered necessary at this stage, having regard to the nature and scale of the proposed development together with the established operational compliance history of the facility. Notwithstanding this, operational activities at the site will continue to be managed in a manner designed to minimise poten- tial noise emissions associated with vehicle movements, loading and unloading activities and general yard operations. Should any noise complaints arise during the operational phase, appropriate investigation and corrective measures will be undertaken where necessary. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 29 9.0 CONCLUSION A Noise Impact Assessment has been undertaken in relation to the proposed development at Sra, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan with reference to:  EPA NG4 guidance;  BS 5228-1 and BS 5228-2:2009+A1:2014;  BS 4142:2014+A1:2019; and  ISO 1996 guidance relating to environmental noise assessment. Baseline environmental noise monitoring indicates a generally low to moderate rural noise environment influenced by intermittent road traffic, agricultural activity and existing commercial activity within the wider area. Construction noise impacts associated with the proposed development are predicted to be temporary, localised and short- term in nature. Predicted construction noise levels are generally within the adopted daytime construction noise criterion of 65 dB LAeq,T and significant vibration impacts are not anticipated. The operational assessment demonstrates that the proposed development represents an extension and continuation of the existing authorised facility operation and does not involve significant new industrial processing activities. Historical environmental noise assessments undertaken in 2011 and 2017 demonstrated compliance with applicable Waste Facility Permit operational noise limits and confirmed the absence of significant tonal or impulsive noise emissions at nearby residential receptors. Subject to the implementation of the mitigation and operational management measures outlined within this report, the proposed development is not predicted to give rise to significant adverse noise or vibration impacts on the surrounding receiving environment. Accordingly, the proposed development is considered acceptable from a noise, environmental amenity and planning perspective. RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 30 ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE ASSESSMENT SRA, BALLYBAY, CO. MONAGHAN COMPLETED BY TRAYNOR ENVIRONMENTAL LTD APPENDIX A – NOISE METER CALIBRATION CERTIFICATES OF CALIBRATION RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 31 RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 32 RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 33 RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 34 ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE ASSESSMENT SRA, BALLYBAY, CO. MONAGHAN COMPLETED BY TRAYNOR ENVIRONMENTAL LTD APPENDIX B – COMPETENCY CERTIFICATE FROM INSTITUTE OF ACOUSTICS RECEIVED: 26/06/2026 Noise Impact Assessment 35 RECEIVED: 26/06/2026