Acoustic Consultancy

Acoustic Consultancy for Hub 519: RIBA Stage 4 Design of Stocksbridge’s New Community Hub

Project Overview

NOVA Acoustics Ltd was appointed by RG Carter to provide acoustic consultancy services for the RIBA Stage 4 design of Hub 519, a transformative new community hub in Stocksbridge, Sheffield. The development is part of the broader Stocksbridge Towns Fund initiative and is set to become a vibrant centre for learning, business, and community engagement.

Located between Manchester Road and Button Row, Hub 519 will replace the existing library and adjacent buildings with a modern, multi-storey facility. It will house a new library hub, retail and commercial units, managed workspaces, and flexible spaces for training and collaboration. The hub is designed to support businesses in digital, tech, creative, clean growth, and professional sectors—creating high-value jobs and fostering innovation 1.

Scope of Work

NOVA Acoustics Ltd was commissioned to deliver a comprehensive acoustic design strategy that aligns with BREEAM UK 2024 (Version 6.1) and national standards including BS8233:2014 and BS4142:2014. Our scope included:

Environmental Noise Survey: Conducted in collaboration with Arup, our survey assessed ambient and background noise levels across multiple receptor points including Manchester Road and Button Row.
Internal Ambient Noise Level Assessment: Defined acoustic criteria for all room types, from library and offices to café and retail spaces, ensuring compliance with BREEAM HEA 05 Credit.
Sound Insulation Design: Developed specifications for partition walls and floors to meet privacy and performance standards, including flanking sound guidance and junction detailing.
Mechanical Services Review: Evaluated HVAC systems, ductwork, and plant noise emissions, recommending silencers and anti-vibration mounts to mitigate structure-borne noise.
Reverberation Control: Proposed absorption treatments and ceiling raft solutions to meet reverberation time targets across various spaces.
External Plant Emissions Assessment: Performed BS4142 noise impact assessments to ensure plant emissions remain below background levels at nearby residential receptors.

Challenges and Solutions

The acoustic environment surrounding the site is dominated by road traffic noise, presenting challenges for both internal comfort and external compliance. Our team addressed this by:

Specifying robust glazing and masonry wall constructions to mitigate noise ingress.
Designing enhanced acoustic partitions and doors to maintain privacy and reduce flanking transmission.
Recommending mechanical ventilation silencers and anti-vibration mounts to control structure-borne noise.
Advising on reverberation control through strategic use of Class A absorptive materials and ceiling rafts.

Why NOVA Acoustics?

At NOVA Acoustics Ltd, we combine technical precision with practical insight to deliver acoustic solutions that enhance the usability and comfort of built environments. For Hub 519, our consultancy ensured that the acoustic design supports the building’s multifunctional use—whether for quiet study, collaborative work, or community events.

Our team’s expertise in environmental noise control, building acoustics, and mechanical systems integration helped shape a space that meets stringent performance standards while remaining adaptable to future tenant needs. We are proud to contribute to a project that celebrates Stocksbridge’s heritage and supports its future growth.

We offer a full suite of services—from noise impact assessments to reverberation control and sound insulation testing—all delivered by our team of expert acoustic consultants.

Whether you’re planning a new build or converting an existing space, NOVA Acoustics provides tailored acoustic solutions that support planning approval, enhance user experience, and ensure compliance with building regulations.

Explore more of our recent projects to see how we’ve helped clients across hospitality, education, and commercial sectors. If you’re ready to start your next project, contact us today to speak with one of our consultants.