The Cumberland Arms: A Case Study in Acoustic Design

The Cumberland Arms Project

The Cumberland Arms is a culturally important venue in the Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle. Recently, a residential development was proposed nearby. Sustainable Acoustics provided acoustic advice to the Cumberland Arms, while Apex Acoustics advised the prospective developer. Ultimately, both companies collaborated to reach a technically agreed solution. This solution gave the Council confidence to approve the development.

The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle. Source: https://www.thecumberlandarms.co.uk/

The Story So Far...

The original concern for this project stemmed from the fact that historically, the venue has never had residents nearby. This unique situation allowed the venue to create noise from live music outside, often until 11 PM, without disturbing anyone.

However, the proposed development intended to place at least 83 residential apartments in close proximity to the venue. This change would likely prompt complaints and threaten the Cumberland Arms’ long-standing operations. Such an outcome could be considered a metaphorical ‘own goal’ damaging the cultural fabric of the Ouseburn Valley.

The Challenge: Agent of Change Versus Noise Pollution Approach

Applying traditional acoustic noise pollution methods suggested that the development should not proceed without intervention. A new approach was necessary—one that recognized that the entertainment sound from the Cumberland Arms is a valued part of the area's soundscape. This vibrancy needs protection.

Newcastle City Council insisted that the new residential development should have openable windows. Under these conditions, any future nuisance complaints would be addressed.

These conflicting demands led to a stalemate. The site risked being overshadowed by noise pollution concerns, while the Agent of Change served as a crucial gatekeeper in this scenario.

The Solution: A Sustainable Development Outcome

1. Establishing Baselines

   Sustainable Acoustics defined a robust operational acoustic baseline for the Cumberland Arms. This assessment spanned numerous events, covering the full range of the venue's offerings. The result was a formalized Entertainment Acoustic Baseline that was shared with the developer.

   
   

2. Developing Mitigation Strategies

   Apex Acoustics utilized the baseline to design a comprehensive package of mitigation measures and sound design practices. These strategies aimed for low internal music sound levels (NR15 in the worst case). Notably, the design incorporated alternative ventilation systems, meaning residents wouldn’t have to rely solely on opening windows.

   
   

3. Collaboration with the Developer

   The developer, Modobloc, agreed to cover the costs associated with these solutions. This collaboration allowed both parties to work on a plan that could be presented to Newcastle City Council.

   
   

4. Enhancing the Venue's Sound System

   Modobloc committed to funding a new sound system for the Cumberland Arms. This upgrade reduced sound spill into the residential areas, establishing a safety net for their design assumptions.

   
   

5. Easement Agreement

   An easement will be entered into with the Cumberland Arms. It includes a "buyer beware" warning for future residents, which will be reflected in the property's Deeds. This precaution ensures that new residents are aware of potential noise.

   
   

6. Environmental Health Agreement

   Newcastle City Council’s Environmental Health Department agreed that noise levels of no more than 5dB(A) above background levels for music outside the residential properties would likely not create a statutory nuisance, even if windows are opened.

   
   

7. Creating a Noise Management Plan

   The Cumberland Arms committed to implementing a Noise Management Plan that outlines how they will operate in a manner that acknowledges the need to be good neighbors.

   
   

The approval of this development marks a significant milestone. It demonstrates how the Agent of Change principle can be employed effectively. This approach allows for a sustainable development outcome that maintains vibrancy and cultural significance. It also permits residents to live in close proximity to the venue safely.

Peter Rogers, MD of Sustainable Acoustics, remarked:

"This is a wonderful example of how acoustics can unlock the potential of sustainable development, without which it would not be possible."

The true test lies ahead, when the apartments are built and occupied. However, acousticians remain confident. This innovative approach to creating healthy soundscapes offers a better framework for addressing similar challenges in the future.

To learn more about this landmark project, follow this link to read the article "Ouseburn housing development approved despite worries for nearby pubs and music venues" written by the Chronicle Live.