As urbanisation increases, so does the issue of noise pollution. With more homes, schools, and businesses situated near busy roads, railways, and industrial areas, the demand for effective soundproofing solutions has grown significantly.
Acoustic fencing has emerged as a practical response to this challenge, providing a physical barrier that helps reduce unwanted noise in both residential and commercial settings. The UK market for acoustic barriers is expanding, driven by rising awareness of the health impacts of noise and the need to meet stricter regulatory standards.
That’s why Nationwide Fencing came to Premier Forest Products – to support and supply a range of acoustic fencing projects they were undertaking across the south of England.
Premier Forest’s acoustic fence panels are manufactured in the UK and have been tested to achieve a noise reduction of 26 decibels (dB). They are constructed from horizontal tongue and groove ‘V’ joint boards and made from joinery-grade Scandinavian redwood. The boards are interlocked and bonded with an acoustic sealant, which enhances their ability to block and dampen sound.
At Woodbridge School in Ipswich, Nationwide was tasked with providing a new fencing solution and sought out Premier Forest’s Premier Reflect Acoustic Barrier, a product that offers flexibility in installation. Premier Reflect is 2.4m wide and available in 1m, 2m and 3m heights, enabling contractors to mix and match panels to achieve the required height, up to 5m. The teams worked together to agree on a 4m high solution, perfect for the school setting.
Willow Grove Primary School in Bedford also received a fencing solution from Nationwide Fencing and Premier Forest Products, through contractor Willmott Dixon. A feather edged board fence and gate were installed as part of the 4,529m² new school development worth £23.8 million, which was completed in September 2024*.
Two landfill sites in Bedford were also fitted with the Premier Reflect Acoustic Barrier. The variations in volumes of traffic and the work undertaken at each site meant that two sites were fitted with different heights, one with 3m and one with the maximum 5m order to best address their specific volume levels. These acoustic solutions will support noise reduction, ensuring the sites abide by local regulations during the day and night.
Dave Say, UK Softwood Products Commercial Manager at Premier Forest Products, said: “Working alongside Nationwide Fencing to provide these custom acoustic fencing solutions was a pleasure. Our acoustic panels are a versatile, easy option, suitable for commercial clients like these that want to keep the noise in, but also residential properties that want to keep noise out. We can supply you with the panels or the components to build your own on site, quietly!”
*https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/projects/willow-tree-primary-school-wixams
