Jacksons Fencing's bespoke acoustic barrier makes waves at Sandwell Aquatics Centre

Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Smethwick is a state-of-the-art leisure centre that originated as a purpose-built arena for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

The facility played host to the highest number of medal events compared to any other, showcasing both swimming and diving competitions. The newly constructed complex included a competition pool for swimming and diving, a temporary pool for swimming and para-swimming warm-up, and an area dedicated to dry-dive training.

Reclaiming the space

Following its key role in the games, the original structure was reconfigured so it could be used by the local community from the summer of 2023 onwards. The 4000 temporary seats have been removed and fresh facilities tailored for community use have replaced them.

The leisure hub boasts a gym with over 100 stations, a specialised ladies-only gym with 25+ stations, along with amenities such as a sauna, steam room, football pitch, two 4-court sports halls, three exercise studios, an indoor cycling studio, and a trio of swimming pools.

Plant noise assessment

The anticipated noise levels generated by various mechanical components within the plant room

In the proposal documents, Mach Acoustics included two detailed acoustic reports – one addressing operational noise and the other focusing on plant noise.

The plant noise assessment specifically outlined the anticipated noise levels generated by various mechanical components within the plant room, which includes several pumps and air handling units. 

Acoustic barrier with integrated louvre

The acoustician's initial recommendation proposed an acoustic barrier with integrated louvre features to ensure adequate airflow while mitigating noise.

However, a subsequent design amendment specified a solid acoustic barrier with slatted top sections to maintain airflow and enhance aesthetics. Additionally, steel louvre doors were specified for access.

Absorptive acoustic barriers

These barriers effectively reduce noise pollution originating from mechanical plant areas

It has become standard practice to install absorptive acoustic barriers around new and renovated leisure centres. These barriers effectively reduce noise pollution originating from mechanical plant areas and operational compounds.

It's not uncommon for heat pumps and air conditioning units to produce a continuous low-level hum or buzzing noise, which can disrupt neighbouring properties and create an unpleasant auditory environment for facility members and visitors alike.

Game-changing solutions

With prior experience in similar acoustic installations for aquatic and leisure centres, Jacksons Fencing successfully secured a subcontractor contract with Wates. They designed, manufactured, and installed customised acoustic fencing and gates across three elevations:

• The first elevation covered 16.5m and featured 2.8m high Jakoustic Reflective panels with 2.1m high timber slats above.
• The second elevation spanned 11m, incorporating 3.2m high Jakoustic Reflective panels with 2.1m high timber slats above, 9.64m of 5.3m high panels, and 11.3m of 3.2m high panels with 2.1m high timber slats.
• The third elevation extended 16.5m and used 3.2m high Jakoustic Reflective panels with 2.1m high timber slats above.

Benefits of solid acoustic barriers

These barriers offer an appealing noise reduction solution that conceals machinery and serves as a robust security barrier

The different heights of the solid acoustic barriers were strategically chosen to benefit noise reduction, with timber slats enhancing aesthetics and airflow. The project also included matching double-leaf acoustic gates for access. In the first elevation, two apertures were left for steel louvre panels.

The acoustic barriers, mounted on galvanised steel posts, were constructed from tongue and groove boards with a deep V profile, tightly slotting together to reflect noise by up to 28dB. These barriers not only offer an appealing noise reduction solution that conceals machinery but also serve as a robust security barrier, devoid of footholds and challenging to scale.

Tailored security solutions

Peter Jackson, Managing Director, of Jacksons Fencing says, “The Sandwell Aquatics Centre serves as a remarkable example of how facilities can undergo effective reconfiguration to align with their new objectives to ensure they are being utilised effectively."

"This project showcases our team's dedication to tailoring security solutions precisely to the task at hand, achieved through the customisation of acoustic fencing. The outcome not only exudes a sleek and sophisticated appearance but also fulfils its vital function. Coupled with a reliable 25-year guarantee, this acoustic fencing ensures enduring noise reduction, cost efficiency, and sustainability.”