The School of Engineering at Trinity College Dublin was delighted to welcome Stephen Turner, Honorary Fellow and former President of the UK Institute of Acoustics (IOA), to deliver a public talk on The Development and Implementation of the Noise Policy Statement for England (and lessons learned). The event was held in collaboration with the Institute of Acoustics | Irish Branch and brought together academics, professionals, and students working across environmental acoustics and engineering policy.  

Stephen Turner, who played a key role in shaping noise policy in the UK and Europe, offered valuable insights into the origins, aims, and long-term impact of the 2010 Noise Policy Statement for England (NPSE). Drawing on over 47 years of experience across both the public and private sectors, Stephen's presentation explored the ambitions of the NPSE, the political and practical challenges surrounding its implementation, and the wider implications for environmental noise management. The School of Engineering extends sincere thanks to Stephen for his generosity, expertise and thoughtful discussion on the future of noise policy. <Image of Stephen Presenting> 

The Chair of the Irish Branch, Diarmuid Keaney, was also pleased to present an academic award to Jacques Dalton, who was recognised for the Best Diploma Performance by an Irish candidate in the 2023–2024 Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control. Jaques completed the diploma through Trinity College Dublin, which delivers the programme on behalf of the Institute of Acoustics in Ireland. 

This prestigious diploma, now in its 13th year under the coordination of Dr. John Kennedy, Associate Professor in the School of Engineering, provides specialised training in acoustics, noise measurement, and control, and is highly regarded by professionals working in planning, construction, environmental health, engineering, and environmental protection. Delivered through the Fluids, Acoustics & Vibration Research Group, the programme reflects Trinity’s strong partnership with the Institute of Acoustics. 

The Fluids, Acoustics & Vibration (FAV) Research Group, led by Prof. Henry Rice, includes Prof. Gareth Bennett, Dr. Craig Meskell (Associate Professor), and Dr. John Kennedy (Associate Professor). Together, they continue to support research and professional development in acoustics through teaching, supervision, and collaborative initiatives. 

One such initiative is the Noise 2050 project, led by Dr. Kennedy and funded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The project will be carried out in partnership with University of Galway and University College Dublin over the next four years. The project explores how environmental noise will be shaped by societal and technological change over the coming decades and aims to inform future policy development in Ireland. 

The School of Engineering is proud of its long-standing relationship with the Institute of Acoustics and is committed to supporting education, research and engagement in the field of environmental acoustics. 

Finally, we would like to thank NTi Audio for their generous support of this fantastic event.