QinetiQ operates the Range at Shoeburyness on behalf of the MOD under what is known as the Long Term Partnering Agreement (LTPA). The site is in operation all year round delivering vital test, evaluation and training support for the UK Armed Services.
Meteorological conditions play a very significant part in the propagation of airborne vibration (noise). MOD Shoeburyness uses acoustic forecasting and noise modelling to operate within a strictly controlled noise limit of a maximum of 125dB (decibels) at off site monitors.
Noise is monitored at six specialist stations located around the Thames Estuary (see map). If acoustic forecasting and noise modelling indicate that scheduled activity may exceed 125dB at any monitoring station, the activity is postponed or reduced until more favourable conditions allow. For the most part, noise levels recorded remain well below the limit or are lost in the ambient background noise.
Both QinetiQ and the MOD take this matter very seriously and have made significant investment in the noise monitoring technology used by the Range.
These precautionary measures help to minimise disturbance in communities of Essex and Kent. We do however, recognise the issues that Range activity may cause and apologise for any disruption or inconvenience experienced.