One of the East Midlands’ fastest growing consulting development engineers, M-EC has bolstered its in-house environmental division by offering odour and vibration assessments.
A key consideration for planning applications, odour assessments can identify any adverse effects on existing or future residents, whilst vibration surveys can determine viability for development as well as suggest ways for developers to minimise disruption during construction.
“Odour and vibration assessments can prove particularly useful for sites in close proximity to railway lines, main road infrastructure and sewage treatment plants, farms or other industrial sources respectivelyas well as for determining the impact of construction site traffic on the surrounding area,” said M-EC’s environmental consultant, Rosie James. “With legislation outlined by the Environmental Protection Act, Defra, Environment Agency and the National Planning Policy Framework, it’s essential for local authorities, planning consultants and developers to seek advice and remain as up-to-date as possible.”
To undertake odour and vibration assessments, M-EC utilises the latest equipment and software. A seismograph is used to calculate vibration values whilst atmospheric dispersion modelling software uses meteorological data to show the contours and estimated reach of where odours might spread. The consultancy has already conducted successful surveys in Eckington, Worcestershire; Earls Barton, Northamptonshire and Asfordby Hill, Leicestershire confirming low probability of any adverse effects and therefore viability for development.
Rosie added: “Odour and vibration sit naturally alongside noise and air quality, so it was a logical progression to add these capabilities to the environmental division. Our whole function is to assess impact, develop mitigation and support planning proposals so by offering the four main assessments from one consultancy, we hope to improve speed and reduce costs for clients.”
M-EC’s environmental division was established in 2013 and Rosie James has over seven years’ experience in the sector.
