MEC supported Morro Partnerships and the wider team by providing key technical expertise to help secure planning permission for a new extra care facility in Wellington town centre. The development will feature 64 residential units, along with communal spaces, a landscaped courtyard, and a car parking facility, complementing the surrounding residential and commercial areas.
The site has a rich history, once home to the Clifton Cinema, which closed in 1989. After serving as a Dunelm furniture store until 2012, the site has remained empty for 11 years. Now, this long-vacant space is set to be transformed into a much-needed care facility, bringing new life to Wellington’s town centre.
MEC was instructed to provide support on a range of environmental and technical factors to support the planning process. Our input focused on acoustic impact, air quality, and construction dust assessment, ensuring the development not only met regulations but also created a comfortable and sustainable living environment for future residents.
Acoustic Assessment
We undertook a detailed acoustic assessment to understand how noise from the surrounding area might impact the development. Using on-site sound level measurements, we assessed the data against relevant industry standards, including ProPG and BS 8233. To ensure a peaceful and comfortable environment for residents, we recommended practical mitigation measures, such as optimising the building layout, selecting specialist glazing, and incorporating ventilation systems designed to minimise external noise.
Air Quality Assessment
Understanding the impact of the development on local air quality was a key part of our work. We carried out an air quality assessment, comparing traffic flows from the site’s previous and proposed use. The findings showed that the development would not lead to a significant impact on existing traffic flows, [DN1] helping to maintain good air quality in the area. While pollutant concentrations remained well below national limits, we identified opportunities to further enhance air quality and reduce incremental impacts by recommending:
Construction Dust Impact Assessment
With construction activity posing a medium risk of dust impact on nearby properties and businesses, we conducted a construction dust impact assessment to determine the level of risk to local receptors. To minimise potential disruption, we advised that the site management plan include robust dust control measures, following best practices outlined in IAQM construction dust guidance.
By carefully assessing these environmental factors and offering practical, sustainable solutions, MEC helped ensure that the development will provide a high-quality, well-planned living environment for its future residents while minimising its impact on the surrounding area.
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*CREDIT: Photo taken from IDP Architecture and planning
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