How the New Draft National Planning Policy Framework Could Affect Noise

In December 2025, the Government published a new draft version of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the overarching legal policy framework that guides planning in England and Wales. The previous version was supported by more context and detail in a parallel guidance document known as the National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG), which is more regularly updated and revised.  

It is yet to be seen how the new NPPF will actually affect noise related policy but from looking at the draft guidance here are the key areas where we are likely to see changes:  

1. There is a new assumption in favour of development in close proximity to railway stations. From a travel and sustainability perspective this is great, but in terms of potential noise and vibration impacts it will need careful design and mitigation to ensure suitable living environments.

2. The consultation document contains an Annex specifically on the subject of the need for more data centres and their associated onsite energy generation, in order to continue investment in the sector. The phrase “cut red tape” is used. Data centres and backup energy generation is by its very noisy nature, and can lead to conflicts with neighbours if not designed and managed properly. It is hoped that the red tape that is cut won’t include environmental noise assessment where impact on neighbouring communities is at stake.

Other references to noise in the draft document include around mineral development, marine ports, aviation facilities, land and operations for defence and around traveller sites.

It is notable that soundscape is not mentioned at all and the only reference to vibration is in relation to mineral extraction, but both of these are brought into the wider holistic assessment by the accompanying NPPG.  

The Omnia acoustics team have experience of assessing all of these areas, and can help with design, mitigation, or complaint resolution in all areas. This includes railway noise and vibration assessments, as well as data centre acoustic design.  

Please get in touch with us if you have any acoustic related queries regarding the new policy document.