Predicting noise nuisance from outdoor music events in the built environment

Abstract

Noise nuisance caused by outdoor music events has become a heavily discussed issue in metropolitan environments such as Amsterdam. The main objective of this research is to lay the foundation for a map that effectively disseminate noise information and facilitates well-informed decision making concerning the impact and assessment of outdoor music events. A noise map disseminates noise level information and is a common tool for environmental noise caused by roads or industries. The research question is: can a noise map be a valid tool for predicting noise nuisance from outdoor music events in the built environment? This master thesis is an exploration whether subjective opinions that are the result of a realworld event can be predicted by spatial analysis. Sound is a phenomenon with a spatial attribute and the knowledge of sound propagation is applied frequently in many different industries. In practice noise level prediction is an important instrument to decide by authorities whether an event can take place or not, therefore a study to better understand the relationship between complaints and noise level prediction is valuable. Noise measurements have been made at several events in the surrounding area of Amsterdam. The noise measurements have been used to investigate the accuracy of the current noise level prediction methodology. Spatial data and noise measurements were gathered from actual noise nuisance complaints to gain insight into the relation between the noise levels and nuisance complaints. Finally recommendations are made to help the municipality and event-producers better assess the possible impact of an outdoor music event.