Acoustic study of the Rocade Nord-Ouest (M652)
Controlling noise pollution for the European Metropolis of Lille
Lille’s Rocade Nord-Ouest (M652) is a major artery in the road network of the Métropole Européenne de Lille (MEL). With almost 75,000 vehicles per day, it passes through sensitive urban areas, notably the Haut-Touquet district of Marquette-lez-Lille, which is exposed to noise levels of between 60 and 70 dB(A).
Table of contents
- The M652: a road with a high noise impact
- A complete acoustic diagnosis for a precise vision
- Modeling, mapping and regulatory indicators
- Technical solutions to reduce road noise
- Conclusion: strategic support for MEL
The M652: a road with a high noise impact
In response to growing concern among local residents, the MEL has made the M652 a priority in its Environmental Noise Prevention Plan (PPBE). To this end, it has commissioned a specialist acoustics consultancy to carry out an in-depth diagnosis and propose concrete noise reduction measures.
A complete acoustic diagnosis for a precise vision
The acoustic study carried out on the M652 was based on a rigorous methodology, in compliance with French and European regulations. It involved several key stages:
– Data collection: road traffic (volume, vehicle types, speeds), pavement characteristics, topography, building typology;
– In situ noise measurements: measurement campaigns carried out at various strategic points along the route, in order to validate the predictive models and assess the actual exposure of residents.
These data enabled us to build a reliable basis for acoustic modelling, by integrating the local specificities of the area crossed by the M652.
Modeling, mapping and regulatory indicators
The analysis resulted in strategic noise maps based on regulatory indicators:
– Lden: overall exposure indicator (day-evening-night);
– Ln: night-time exposure indicator.
These maps provide a precise picture of the noise impact of the bypass on the surrounding neighborhoods. They highlight the most exposed areas, making it easier to prioritize the work to be carried out.
Acoustic mapping also serves as a communication and decision-making tool for local authorities and citizens, providing a clear representation of the noise situation in the area.
Technical solutions to reduce road noise
Based on the results of the diagnosis, several noise reduction scenarios were studied. The aim: to implement targeted, technically feasible and economically viable actions to mitigate perceived nuisance.
Among the measures analyzed:
– Installation of high-performance sound-absorbing surfacing, resulting in a measured reduction of 6 dB(A) in certain sectors;
– Creation of plant barriers to improve sound insulation and landscape integration;
– Reduction of speed to 70 km/h, generating an additional acoustic gain estimated at 2 dB(A).
These solutions combine acoustic efficiency, social acceptability and respect for urban constraints. They form part of MEL’s overall strategy to reduce noise pollution from transport infrastructures.
Conclusion: strategic support for MEL
The acoustic study of Lille’s Rocade Nord-Ouest (M652) illustrates the importance of rigorous acoustic diagnosis and advanced modeling for noise management in dense urban environments. Thanks to its structured approach, SIM Engineering has provided MEL with concrete decision-making tools to improve the quality of life of local residents.
This project is part of a proactive approach to public health, compliance with regulatory obligations and sustainable development, by integrating environmental concerns at the heart of regional planning.
Do you need to control noise pollution in an urban environment or in the vicinity of transport infrastructures?
➡️ Contact one of our experts for a diagnosis and expert support in environmental and urban acoustics.