Update on Rydalmere noise investigation

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has varied the licences of two industrial sites in Rydalmere as part of its investigation into a persistent low frequency ‘humming’ noise reported by the community.

Noise monitoring last month identified two EPA-regulated facilities, Knauf and James Hardie, as potential sources of the noise.

Under the new licence conditions, both sites must engage specialist consultants to carry out noise monitoring and submit a Noise Impact Assessment to the EPA by late November. Pending the assessment outcomes, licensees may then be required to prepare reports outlining practical mitigation measures they will take to reduce noise at the source. 

Knauf has already taken proactive action over the last two weeks to address potential noise sources onsite.

Additionally, we’re continuing to investigate a third EPA-regulated facility thought to be a source of noise in the area. Noise detected at this facility does not match the humming sound but does warrant further follow-up.

While we have recently experienced a decrease in noise complaints from residents, we understand that noise pollution is frustrating and want to reassure the community that addressing this issue is a priority. 

The noise environment in Rydalmere is complex, with several major industrial precincts nearby. To better understand other sources of noise in the area, we’ve installed a 24/7 noise monitor at a residential property in Rydalmere and will be reviewing data from this device weekly for the next month.

We’re also continuing to work with Parramatta Council to identify and investigate potential contributors to the overall noisescape experienced by the community.

Anyone affected by the noise is encouraged to make a report to the EPA’s EnviroLine on 131 555 to help inform the ongoing investigation.