The Round Hill Society

Air Source Heat Pumps

BH2024/02628 - 56A Round Hill Crescent: creation of a first-floor roof terrace to existing flat roof, relocation of existing PV roof panels and air-source heat pump.

This application is still open for public consultation so there is still an opportunity to Make a comment.

Concerns include overlooking, the possibility of noise from the heat pump and loss of a green roof. See public comments.

Others, posting on The Round Hill Community Noticeboard Facebook Group don't feel that noise from the heat pump gives cause for concern.

One resident posts a link to an article from The Guardian entitled Will my heat pump be a noise nuisance to my neighbours? The article concludes “While the potential noise impact of air source heat pumps should be considered, it is important to balance this with the significant environmental benefits of transitioning away from fossil fuel heating systems. Gas boilers also make a noise.”

One of the concerned neighbours concludes I am fully supportive of the use of ASHPs, but think consideration should be given to a sound baffling wall around this one.

Another local resident observes "They can be very, very quiet. I’d be surprised if permission isn’t conditioned on any noise levels being proven to be below acceptable levels and / or being screened in acoustic fencing."

Application involving Air Source Heat Pumps at Sainsbury's Superstore at 93 Lewes Road

Note that BH2024/01390 Erection of new plant to roof comprising 2no. Refrigeration gas coolers, 4no. Air source heat pumps and 1no. Air handler unit was APPROVED on 31st July 2024. The superstore backs onto homes in D'Aubigny Road and is near to homes at the east end of Round Hill Crescent. See Public comments.

Now that Sainsbury has been given the go-ahead to install the four Air Source Heat Pumps, residents living nearby will find out whether concerns are justified. Do let your local residents association (The Round Hill Society) know of the outcome.