Historic buildings and material change of use

In the case of some historic buildings undergoing material change of use, it may not be practical to improve the sound insulation to the standards set out in Tables 1a and 1b. The need to conserve the special characteristics of such historic buildings needs to be recognised, and in such work, the aim should be to improve sound insulation to the extent that is practically possible, always provided that the work does not prejudice the character of the historic building, or increase the risk of long-term deterioration to the building fabric or fittings. In arriving at an appropriate balance between historic building conservation and improving sound insulation it would be appropriate to take into account the advice of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency Built Heritage conservation officer. In such cases it will be reasonable to improve the sound insulation as much as is practical, and to supply a notice showing the sound insulation value(s) obtained by testing to the building owner upon completion.