Neighbours of Ed Miliband voice discontent over proposed heat pump installation due to noise-related issues.
In the heart of North London, a squabble over heat pumps has heated up, raising questions about the hum of low-carbon technology. The dispute is centered on a proposed housing block in Dartmouth Park, complete with six air source heat pumps. Local residents have voiced concerns about potential noise pollution, creating a tricky situation for Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, a strong advocate for heat pumps and a neighbor to the development.
The Dartmouth Park dispute
The issue centers on a five-story construction plan in Camden's Dartmouth Park, which includes the installation of six external heat pumps at ground level. Residents have lodged objections with Camden Council, expressing "serious concerns about long-term noise pollution." One resident even accused the development of "greenwashing."
Others worried that the noise could disturb gardens and nearby homes, despite a developer-commissioned report claiming the sound levels would be minimal. Air source heat pumps produce a discreet hum, typically around 40 to 60 decibels—similar to a refrigerator or dishwasher. Although usually within permitted limits, heat pump noise can become an issue in densely populated areas or peaceful residential streets.
A nationwide rollout, neighboring resistance
This dispute symbolizes the tension between the UK's aggressive heat pump rollout ambition and the practical challenges of implementation. As Energy Secretary, Miliband promotes the electrification of home heating with a goal of installing 600,000 units annually by 2028. Yet, some local officials are encountering resistance, particularly over noise and visual impact concerns.
A recent DEFRA review into heat pump noise acknowledged increasing public dissatisfaction, concluding that stricter acoustic standards and clearer communication were necessary to bolster public trust. While not all residents opposed the heat pumps, one local, Stephen Evans, supported the heat pump plans and criticized the Dartmouth Park neighborhood plan for insufficient emphasis on reducing a building's carbon footprint.
Planning rules under review amidst rising demand
The controversy is further complicated by the recent abolition of a key planning rule aimed at shielding neighbors from excessive noise. In an attempt to streamline the installation process, the government lifted restrictions on heat pump planning permissions, making it possible to install more units without prior approval if they meet basic acoustic thresholds.
However, critics caution that this policy may move faster than the public's readiness for it. Maya de Souza, former chair of Dartmouth Park Neighborhood Forum, stated, "Planning permission is confusing on what is allowed to make homes environmentally friendly."
To combat noise concerns, developers and homeowners are now encouraged to opt for models with minimal impact. The latest list of quietest heat pumps for 2025 provides options that can operate below 40 decibels. For Miliband, the challenge may now lie less in convincing Parliament and more in winning over the neighbors.
Key Points for regulations and best practices:
- Noise Limits: The legal limit for an air source heat pump in operation is 42 decibels when measured from the closest neighboring property. The MCS 020 standard sets a stricter limit of 37 dB(A) at the property boundary for domestic installations.
- Planning Permission: While planning permission rules have relaxed, ensuring compliance with noise regulations is essential. Installations must not exceed specific size limits and must be strategically located to minimize disturbance.
- Local Regulations: Consult local councils, as regulations can differ.
- Noise Assessment: Conduct comprehensive noise assessments to identify potential issues and implement measures to reduce noise levels.
- Installation Location: Choose a location for the outdoor unit that minimizes noise exposure to neighbors, considering distance and barriers.
- Technology Advancements: Employ newer, quieter models of air source heat pumps, designed to be more noise-efficient.
- Community Engagement: Inform neighbors about the installation and reassure them about the noise levels, usually similar to background noises like a running laptop.
By adhering to these regulations and best practices, noise pollution from air source heat pumps can be effectively managed in both urban and residential areas.
- The proposed plan in Dartmouth Park, Camden, includes installing six external heat pumps, creating concern among residents about potential long-term noise pollution.
- Neighbors of Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, who advocates for heat pumps, have lodged objections with Camden Council, citing the issue as a source of disruption.
- Some residents have accused the development of greenwashing, undermining the UK's ambitious heat pump rollout aiming for 600,000 units annually by 2028.
- Despite a developer-commissioned report claiming minimal sound levels, residents are worried about noise disturbing gardens and nearby homes, with the hum of the heat pumps similar to a refrigerator or dishwasher.
- A recent DEFRA review acknowledged increasing public dissatisfaction, recommending stricter acoustic standards and clearer communication to bolster public trust.
- To combat noise concerns, the latest list of quietest heat pumps for 2025 provides options that can operate below 40 decibels, encouraging developers and homeowners to opt for models with minimal impact.
- In light of the controversy, planning rules are under review, with critics warning that the relaxation of heat pump planning permissions may move faster than the public's readiness for increased noise levels.
