The propagation of noise in a built-up area (on the example of a housing estate in Poznań)

Abstract

The issue of the negative impact of noise on the natural environment is frequently ignored (in spite of its universality), in particular as regards urban and heavily built-up areas. The research presented herein was concerned with a housing estate located in Poznań (Poland). Its area totals approximately 0.55 km2. The area contains structures covered by acoustic protection (multi-family building development and multi-family residential development). Noise level measurements were performed at designated points. The research made use of the Database of Topographical Structures – a digital study with a level of detail corresponding to a map on a scale of 1:10,000. It served as a backdrop for presenting the location of measurement stations and the sound level distribution; structures subject to protection against noise and areas with unfavourable acoustic conditions were both indicated. The results of the study may prove useful in administrative urban planning undertakings concerned with decreasing the noxiousness of noise or preserving areas characterised by a relative acoustic comfort.