With the Club’s promotion to the National League (Step 1 football) for the 2024-25 season, Tamworth FC proposed a new Fan Zone to enhance the matchday experience. The development included a Merchandise Shop (2.7m x 2.1m), Walk-Up Bar (12m x 3.6m), Food Kiosk (3.75m x 2.6m), and GRP Ticket Office (2.7m x 1.5m).
Located in the southwest corner of the ground, the Fan Zone was expected to see a pass-through of 100–200 supporters during operational hours. It was designed to serve refreshments, offer merchandise, and provide access to the popular Tamworth supporter’s stand, known as “The Shed.”
MEC was appointed to carry out an Acoustic Assessment to address Tamworth Borough Council’s concerns about potential noise impacts on nearby residential properties.
We conducted a detailed environmental acoustic survey on both match and non-match days to capture realistic ambient levels. Using acoustic modelling, we demonstrated that noise levels from the proposed Fan Zone would not exceed those already experienced during existing matchday operations.
To further support the planning case and futureproof the scheme, MEC recommended the continuation of an existing 2.5m high steel barrier along the southern boundary of the Fan Zone. Where this wasn’t feasible, a close-fitting timber barrier of the same height and a minimum mass of 10kg/m² was proposed as an alternative noise mitigation measure.
The assessment concluded that the Fan Zone would result in ‘No Observed Effect’ at the nearest residential receptors, remaining below both national planning thresholds and World Health Organisations community noise guidelines.
With evidence-led analysis and a practical mitigation proposal in place, planning permission was granted, enabling the Club to move forward with their enhanced matchday offer, while safeguarding residential amenity.
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