4 Noise

4.1 Introduction

4.1.1.1 This section presents the noise impact assessment of the Project, identifying the potential noise issues during the construction and operational phases, evaluating the potential noise impacts on the identified noise sensitive receivers (NSRs) in the vicinity of the Project and recommending mitigation measures as necessary.

4.1.1.2 During the construction phase, Powered Mechanical Equipment (PME) to be used for the construction works will be the primary noise source. The major noise generating activities will include the construction of ATCL alignment, stations, depot, pier and berthing facilities and other associated works.

4.1.1.3 During the operational phase, the potential noise sources of the Project may include zero emission vehicles and, fixed plant at depot, plant room and marine facilities.

4.1.1.4 The noise impact assessment for the Project has been conducted in accordance with the Annexes 5 and 13 of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) and the technical requirements in Section 3.4.5 of the EIA Study Brief (ESB-342/2021).

4.2 Background

4.2.1 Environmental Legislation

4.2.1.1 The Noise Control Ordinance (NCO) (Cap. 400) provides the statutory framework for noise control. The Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) (Cap. 499) provides the framework for assessment of the noise impact for designated projects.

4.2.1.2 Reference to the EIAO and the relevant technical memoranda has been made for the assessment of noise impacts. Annexes 5 and 13 of the EIAO-TM set out the criteria and guidelines for evaluating noise impacts. Assessment procedures and standards are set out in the following technical memoranda and Guidance Note:

· Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM);

· Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work in Designated Areas (DA-TM);

· Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work other than Percussive Piling (GW-TM);

· Technical Memorandum on Noise from Percussive Piling (PP-TM);

· Technical Memorandum for the Assessment of Noise from Places other than Domestic Premises, Public Places or Construction Sites (IND-TM); and

· EIAO Guidance Note – Preparation of Construction Noise Impact Assessment under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (GN9/2010).

4.2.2 Description of the Environment

4.2.2.1 The Project site is situated between Tung Chung town centre and Hong Kong Port (HKP) Island. The location of the Project is shown in Figure 1.1.

4.2.2.2 The noise sensitive receivers in the assessment area mainly comprise residential uses and the government, institution or community uses at Tung Chung town centre. The existing noise climate is dominated by road traffic from North Lantau Highway, as well as aircraft noise from aircraft landing at and departing from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

4.3 Identification of Noise Sensitive Receivers

4.3.1.1 In accordance with Annex 13 of the EIAO-TM, any domestic premises including temporary housing, school, educational institution, hospitals, medical clinics, homes for the aged, convalescent homes, places of worship, libraries, courts of law, performing arts centres, auditoria, and amphitheatres are identified as NSRs.

4.3.1.2 The assessment area for noise impact generally include areas within 300m from the boundary of the Project and the works of the Project. NSRs within a distance of 300m from the boundary of the Project and the works of the Project have been identified. NSRs located within the first layer from the Project site and having openable windows for ventilation were selected as representative NSRs for assessment. These NSRs include the existing, committed and planned developments during both construction and operational phases of the Project.

4.3.1.3 For identification of NSRs within the defined assessment area, a review has been conducted based on relevant available information including topographic maps, Outline Zoning Plans (OZPs) (e.g. Chek Lap Kok – OZP (Plan No. S/I-CLK/16) and Tung Chung Town Centre Area - OZP (Plan No. S/I-TCTC/24)) and other published plans in the vicinity of the Project site.

4.3.1.4 The identified existing, committed and planned NSRs within the assessment area are presented in Table 4.1 and their locations are shown in Figure 4.1. The photographs of the existing NSRs are shown in Appendix 4.1.

Table 4.1 Noise Sensitive Receivers (NSRs) Identified within 300m Assessment Area

NSR ID	Description	Rely on Openable Windows for Ventilation (Y/N) ^[1]	Existing/ Planned	Uses ^[2]	Selected as Representative NSRs for Assessment (Y: Yes; N: No)^[3]
NSR ID	Description	Rely on Openable Windows for Ventilation (Y/N) ^[1]	Existing/ Planned	Uses ^[2]	Construction Noise	Operational Noise
N01	Seaview Crescent	Y	Existing	R	Y	Y
N02	Novotel Citygate Hong Kong	N	Existing	H	N	N
N03	Ling Liang Church E Wun Secondary School	Y	Existing	E	Y	N
N04	Tung Chung Health Centre	N	Existing	M	N	N
N05	Ching Chung Hau Po Woon Primary School	Y	Existing	E	N	N
N06	Po On Commercial Association Wan Ho Kan Primary School	Y	Existing	E	N	N
N07	Yu Tung Court	Y	Existing	R	N	N
N08	Fu Tung Estate	Y	Existing	R	Y	N
N09	Tung Chung Crescent	Y	Existing	R	Y	Y
N10	Priests’ Quarters of the Planned Visitation Church Development ^[4]	Y	Planned	R	Y	Y
N11	Planned Visitation Church Development ^[4]	N	Planned	W	N	N
N12	The Silveri Hong Kong – MGallery	N	Existing	H	N	N
N13	Hong Kong Airlines Training Centre	N	Existing	E	N	N
N14	Regala Skycity Hotel	N	Existing	H	N	N
N15	Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel	N	Existing	H	N	N
N16	Campus and Dormitory of the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy	N	Planned	E/R	N	N
N17	Ling Liang Church Sau Tak Primary School	Y	Existing	E	N	N
N18	Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers Wong Cho Bau Secondary School	Y	Existing	E	N	N
N19	Po Leung Kuk Mrs. Ma Kam Ming Cheung Fook Sien College	Y	Existing	E	N	N

Note:

[1] For NSRs that do not rely on openable windows for ventilation, they are not included in the assessment.

[2] R – Residential/ Domestic Premises; H – Hotel; E – Educational Institution/ School; M – Medical clinics; W – Place of Public Worship

[3] Only the first layer NSRs have been selected as representative for assessment as they would be worst-affected by the Project during the construction and operation phases.

[4] Based on the best available information during preparation of this EIA, the planned church does not rely on openable windows for ventilation and the tentative intake of planned visitation church development will be early 2026. Further review on the list of representative NSRs will be conducted during preparation of Construction Noise Management Plan.

4.4 Environmental Legislation, Standards and Guidelines

4.4.1 Construction Noise

Construction Noise during Non-restricted Hours

4.4.1.1 Daytime construction noise, excluding percussive piling, between the hours 0700 – 1900 on any day not being a Sunday or general holiday, which are non-restricted hours, should be assessed in accordance with EIAO-TM. Noise standards for daytime construction activities are summarised in Table 4.2.

Table 4.2 Noise Criteria for Daytime Construction Activities (Non-restricted Hours)

Noise Sensitive Uses	Noise Criteria, L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A)
All domestic premises including temporary housing accommodation	75
Hotels and hostels	75
Educational institutions including kindergartens, nurseries and all others where unaided voice communication is required	70 (65 during examinations)

Note:

[1] The above standards apply to uses which rely on openable window for ventilation.

[2] The above standards shall be viewed as the maximum permissible noise levels assessed at 1m from the external façade.

4.4.2 Operational Noise

4.4.2.1 For fixed noise impact assessment, the Acceptable Noise Levels (ANLs) for the Noise Sensitive Receivers (NSRs) are based on the Area Sensitivity Rating (ASR) as defined in the Technical Memorandum for the Assessment of Noise from Places other than Domestic Premises, Public Places or Construction Sites (IND-TM) issued under the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO). The ASR is based on the characteristics of the area within which the NSRs are located, such as rural, village, low-density residential, or urban, and the degree of impact that Influencing Factors (IFs) have on the NSRs as illustrated in Table 4.3. Industrial areas, major roads with an annual average daily traffic flow in excess of 30,000 or the area within the boundary of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) shall be considered to be an IF.

Table 4.3 Area Sensitivity Ratings

Types of Area Containing NSR	Degree to which NSR is affected by IF
Types of Area Containing NSR	Not Affected	Indirectly Affected	Directly Affected
Rural Area, including country parks or village type developments	A	B	B
Low density residential area consisting of low-rise or isolated high-rise developments	A	B	C
Urban area	B	C	C
Area other than those above	B	B	C

4.4.2.2 According to the EIAO-TM, the planned fixed noise sources shall comply with 5dB(A) below the ANLs or the prevailing background noise levels, whichever is lower. Table 4.4 shows the ANL-5 for fixed plant noise for different Area Sensitivity Ratings during different periods.

Table 4.4 Acceptable Noise Levels (ANLs)-5 for Fixed Plant Noise

Time Period	ANL-5, L_eq_30-min, dB(A)
Time Period	ASR A	ASR B	ASR C
Day (0700 to 1900 hours)	55	60	65
Evening (1900 to 2300 hours)	55	60	65
Nighttime (2300 to 0700 hours)	45	50	55

4.4.2.3 The assessment area for the fixed noise source impact includes area within 300 m from the boundary of the Project and the works of the Project. In view of the significant impact on the aviation industry due to travel restrictions and a decimation in demand among travellers during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) of North Lantau Highway (NLH) before COVID-19 pandemic was referenced, which was normally over 30,000 vehicle/day. For example, according to Annual Traffic Census 2018 and 2019, the AADT of NLH were recorded 57,100 and 62,420 in year 2018 and 2019, respectively. In addition, with reference to the approved EIA report on Expansion of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) into a Three-Runway System (Register No.: AEIAR-185/2014), noise from NLH was noticeable at existing NSRs (i.e. Tung Chung Town Centre) and the NLH was considered as an IF. Therefore, NLH is also considered as an IF for the assessment. Besides, HKIA is also considered as an IF, which is in the vicinity of the identified representative NSRs of fixed noise impact.

4.4.2.4 The planned land use in the vicinity of the area is mainly for commercial or government/institutional use. The viaduct section and Tung Chung Central Station in Tung Chung New Town are closed to residential area. The nearest representative NSRs (i.e. Seaview Crescent and Tung Chung Crescent) are high-rise development. A site visit was carried out in Oct 2021 in Tung Chung Town Centre where the existing NSRs (i.e. Seaview Crescent and Tung Chung Crescent) are located, the noise from NLH and aircraft approaching and departing from HKIA were observed.

4.4.2.5 Seaview Crescent (NAP ID: N01a and N01b) is a high density residential development located in an area with mixed residential and commercial developments (outside 100m of Citygate). Therefore, the type of area containing the NSR is considered as “Area other than those above”. N01a and N01b are indirectly affected by HKIA, and directly affected by NLH. The ASR of the NSR is thus classified as “C” as defined in the IND-TM.

4.4.2.6 Tung Chung Crescent (NAP ID: N09a) is a high density residential development located in an area with mixed residential and commercial developments, and public transport interchange. Therefore, the type of area containing the NSR is considered as “Urban area”. N09a is indirectly affected by HKIA and NLH. The ASR of the NSR is thus classified as “C” as defined in the IND-TM.

4.4.2.7 The priests’ quarters of planned visitation church development (NAP ID: N10a) is a residential premise. The premise is located in an area with mixed residential (outside 100m of the quarters) and commercial developments, hence, the type of area containing the NSR is considered as “Area other than those above”. N10a is directly affected by NLH, but indirectly affected by HKIA. The ASR of the NSR is thus classified as “C” as defined in the IND-TM.

4.4.2.8 Taking into account the results of the background noise measurement, the proposed criteria for fixed noise source impact assessment at different representative NSRs are presented in Table 4.5.

Table 4.5 Noise Criteria of Planned Fixed Noise Sources

NSR ID	NAP	Description	ASR	ANL - 5, L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A) (Day & Evening time/ Nighttime)	Reference Prevailing Background Noise, dB(A) (Day & Evening time/ Nighttime) ^[1]	Noise Criteria, L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A) (Day & Evening time/ Nighttime)
N01	N01a	Seaview Crescent Block 1	C	65 / 55	65 / 55 ^[2]	65 / 55
N01	N01b	Seaview Crescent Block 3	C	65 / 55	65 / 55 ^[2]	65 / 55
N09	N09a	Tung Chung Crescent	C	65 / 55	66 / 62 ^[3]	65 / 55
N10	N10a	Priests’ Quarters of the Planned Visitation Church Development	C	65 / 55	66 / 62 ^[3]	65 / 55

Notes:

[1] Prevailing background noise surveys was conducted on 21 and 22 November 2021. However, the traffic flow of NLH and the background noise was observed as exceptionally low, due to travel restrictions and a decimation in demand among travellers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, to properly reflect the prevailing noise level under normal situation, prevailing background noise from other previous approved EIA before COVID-19 pandemic is adopted in this EIA. During the preparation of this EIA, both the traffic flow at NLH and aircraft movements are still much lower than that in the pre-COVID-19 pandemic period. Therefore, re-measurement of prevailing noise could be considered during the EM&A for fixed noise sources criteria review after the COVID-19 pandemic if necessary.

[2] The prevailing background noise is reference to Playground next to Seaview Crescent Block 1 (Location ID: P1) of approved EIA report - Expansion of Hong Kong International Airport into a Three-Runway System (Register No.: AEIAR-185/2014)

[3] The prevailing background noise is reference to Podium of Tung Chung Crescent Block 7 (Location ID: P2) of approved EIA report - Expansion of Hong Kong International Airport into a Three-Runway System (Register No.: AEIAR-185/2014)

4.5 Construction Noise Impact Assessment

4.5.1 Identification of Noise Impact

4.5.1.1 The assessment area for construction noise impact generally includes areas within 300m from the boundary of the Project Area and the works of the Project. The construction works area and 300m assessment area are shown in Figure 4.2 to Figure 4.7.

4.5.1.2 Construction noise assessment points (NAPs) have been assigned for the representative NSRs which are closest to the construction activities and are summarised in Table 4.6. The construction NAPs locations are shown in Figure 4.2 to Figure 4.7.

Table 4.6 Representative Construction NAPs

NSR ID	NAP ID	Location/ Description	No. of Storey	Distance from the site boundary, m	Uses ^[1]	Noise Criteria, L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A)
N01	N01a	Seaview Crescent Block 1	49	183	R	75
N01	N01b	Seaview Crescent Block 3	49	185	R	75
N03	N03a	Ling Liang Church E Wun Secondary School	7	190	E	70 (65 during examinations)
N08	N08a	Fu Tung Estate Tung Ma House	28	125	R	75
N09	N09a	Tung Chung Crescent Block 5 (Point 1)	34	165	R	75
	N09b	Tung Chung Crescent Block 3	31	163	R	75
	N09c	Tung Chung Crescent Block 5 (Point 2)	34	183	R	75
N10^[2]	N10a	Priests’ Quarters of the Planned Visitation Church Development	3	1	R	75

Note:

[1] R – Residential/ Domestic Premises; E – Educational Institution/ School.

[2] The tentative intake of planned visitation church development will be early 2026. However, construction noise impact assessment before the intake date was conducted, in case there is a mis-match of the programme.

4.5.1.3 Potential source of noise impact arising from the construction of the Project would be the use of PME for various construction activities. As broadly indicated in the construction programme in Appendix 4.2, the construction of the ATCL Project would be tentatively commence in Q4 2025 to Q1 2028, for commissioning in July 2028. Major construction works of the Project include:

ATCL

· Construction of about 5km long road with approximately 2,660m at grade section, 880m land viaduct and 230m marine viaduct and a provision spur line of an approximate 980m long connecting the planned Aviation Academy for future extension;

· Construction of 4 at-grade and 1 elevated ATCL stations;

· Construction of a depot; and

· Realignment/Reprovision of affected facilities and construction of ancillary facilities such as walkways, footbridges and plant room(s);

Marine Facilities

· Construction of a pier and berthing facilities with about 73 berths;

· Construction of ancillary facilities including floating platforms, gangs, wave attenuator, guide piles, etc; and

· Maintenance dredging for the marine facilities.

4.5.2 Assessment Methodology

4.5.2.1 The assessment of noise impacts from the construction (excluding percussive piling) of the Project has been based on the methodology given in Annex 13 of the EIAO-TM. The typical approach is summarised as follows:

· Formulate construction programme and work sequences;

· Identify representative construction NSR that may be affected by the construction of the Project;

· Establish the construction plant inventory;

· Assign Sound Power Level (SWL) for each piece of PME based on the GW-TM and the list of Sound Power Level of other commonly used PME;

· Calculate the correction factors based on the distance between the NSR and the notional noise source positions at different construction works areas;

· Apply noise corrections in the calculations for distance, operation time, screening and façade correction, if any;

· Predict the construction noise levels at NSR and compare against the noise criteria (Table 4.7); and

· Determine mitigation measures, as necessary, and assess any residual impacts.

4.5.2.2 Groups of PME have been assigned to various construction activities of the ATCL Project. The construction plant inventory will be subject to change by the Contractor in future. However, the proposed construction plant inventory in Appendix 4.3 is considered technically feasible and confirmed by the Project engineer as workable, and would represent a realistic worst-case scenario for assessment purposes. It is assumed for the assessment that construction activities for the Project will be undertaken during the daytime working hours of 0700 to 1900 hours on any day not being a Sunday or public holiday. No percussive piling will be conducted during the construction and confirmed by the Project engineer. Although part of the works location falls within designated area, based on the current construction programme, no works will be required during restricted hours as defined under the NCO. In case of any construction activities during restricted hours, the contractor shall be responsibility to ensure compliance with the NCO and the relevant TMs. The contractor will be required to submit Construction Noise Permit (CNP) application to the Noise Control Authority and abide by any conditions stated in the CNP, should one be issued. Despite any descriptions made in this EIA Report, there is no guarantee that a CNP will be issued for the construction of this Project.

4.5.2.3 In order to provide a realistic assessment, the percentages on time of powered mechanical equipment (PME) operating in construction work areas have also been considered when calculating the cumulative Sound Power Levels (SWL) for the construction activities. Such percentage on time was also confirmed by the Project engineer as workable. Construction noise levels at the NSRs have been assessed on a monthly basis with respect to the individual noise levels induced by the construction work tasks. The predicted construction noise level (CNL) at the NSR is calculated based on the equation defined below:

CNL = SWL + C_D + C_s + C_T + C_F

Where,

SWL = Sound power level of PME, dB(A);

C_D = Distance correction, dB(A);

C_s = Screening correction, dB(A);

C_T = Percentage on time correction, dB(A);

C_F = Façade correction, dB(A).

4.5.2.4 The construction works will be separated into 16 construction work areas, only the construction works areas A to F are located within the 300m from the construction NAPs. Thus, the construction noise impact from construction works areas A to F have been assessed.

4.5.3 Prediction and Evaluation of Construction Noise Impact (Unmitigated Scenario)

4.5.3.1 The unmitigated construction noise impacts at the identified NSRs have been predicted accordingly. Details of unmitigated construction noise assessment are presented in Appendix 4.4 with the results summarized in Table 4.7.

4.5.3.2 As shown in Table 4.7, the construction noise levels at the identified representative construction NAPs would range from 57 to 97dB(A) under the unmitigated scenario. The predicted construction noise levels would exceed the relevant noise criteria. Noise mitigation measures are therefore required to alleviate the construction noise impact on the affected NSRs.

Table 4.7 Predicted Construction Noise Levels under Unmitigated Scenario

NSR ID	NAP ID	Location / Description	Uses ^[1]	Predicted Construction Noise Level, Unmitigated, L_eq_(30mins), dB(A)
N01	N01a	Seaview Crescent Block 1	R	60 - 78
N01	N01b	Seaview Crescent Block 3	R	61 - 78
N03	N03a	Ling Liang Church E Wun Secondary School	E	57 - 75
N08	N08a	Fu Tung Estate Tung Ma House	R	59 - 78
N09	N09a	Tung Chung Crescent Block 5 (Point 1)	R	62 - 78
	N09b	Tung Chung Crescent Block 3	R	61 - 78
	N09c	Tung Chung Crescent Block 5 (Point 2)	R	61 – 76
N10^[2]	N10a	Priests’ Quarters of the Planned Visitation Church Development	R	68 - 97

Note:

[1] R – Residential/ Domestic Premises; E – Educational Institution/ School.

4.5.4 Prediction and Evaluation of Construction Noise Impact (Mitigated Scenario)

4.5.4.1 In order to alleviate the construction noise impacts at the affected NSR, implementation of noise mitigation measures such as the use of quieter construction methods, quieter PME, noise barriers, noise enclosure and noise insulating fabric are recommended. The plant inventory and noise mitigation measures have been confirmed by Project engineer as workable. The plant inventory is presented in Appendix 4.6 and the recommended measures to be applied are presented below:

Quieter Construction Methods

4.5.4.2 Quieter construction equipment / methods have been considered and assumed to be applied in all construction works areas, and listed as below:

· Hydraulic concrete crusher will be used for rock breaking activities during site establishment, instead of traditional hydraulic breaker. The operation principle of hydraulic breaker is by percussive striking actions of its chisels, while hydraulic concrete crusher is by clamping action. Thus, less noise would be generated from the hydraulic concrete crusher. According to EPD website, the sound pressure level at 7m from the equipment is 67-69 dB(A).

· Non-explosive chemical expansion agent will be used for concrete breaking activities during site establishment, instead of traditional hydraulic breaker. The agent is a slow-acting chemical compound and expand, and cracks the structure. Significant noise, ground vibration, fly rock, gas, dust or any other environmental pollution would not be generated during the process.

· Self-compacting concrete will be used for concreting works, instead of traditional vibratory poker. Self-compacting concrete is highly fluid and non-segregate, which can spread into place, fill the formwork, and encapsulate the steel bar reinforcement without using vibratory poker or other PME.

· Silent piling by Press-in Method (Press-in piling) will be used for sheet piling works, instead of traditional massive augering and piling machines (e.g.: Piling, vibrating hammer). Press-in method is a pile penetration method which accurately installs pre-formed piles through static loading piling. The construction work can also be completed in shorter duration so that the noise impact to nearby NSRs can also be further alleviated. According to the EPD website, the sound pressure level at 7 meters from the equipment is 70 dB(A).

Use of Quieter PME

4.5.4.3 Quieter PME has been assumed to be applied. The use of quieter PME is specified for the list of equipment detailed in Table 4.8 below.

Table 4.8 List of Proposed Quieter PME

PME	Reference	Sound Power Level, dB(A)
Crane, mobile	QPME: EPD-10143	100^[1]
Generator	QPME: EPD-12349	90^[1]
Excavator, wheeled/tracked	QPME: EPD-12254	97^[1]
Air Compressor	QPME: EPD-11726	100^[1]
Concrete Lorry Mixer	Ref: AEIAR-173/2013	96^[2]
Lorry (24t)	Ref: AEIAR-173/2013	96^[2]
Concrete pump	Ref: AEIAR-173/2013	106^[2]
Asphalt Paver	Ref: AEIAR-173/2013	101^[2]
Roller, vibratory	Ref: AEIAR-173/2013	101^[2]
Hydraulic Concrete Crusher	EPD	94 ^[3]
Press-in piling	EPD	95 ^[3]

Note:

[1] The SWL is prescribed in Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment (QPME) in EPD website.

[2] The SWL of the PME is referenced to the EIA report of the Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin Tunnel and Associated Works (Register No. AEIAR-173/2013).

[3] The SWL is converted from SPL by distance attenuation in point source, and the SPL at 7m from the equipment is referenced to EPD website: https://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/construction_noise/contents/index.php/en/home2/quieter-construction-methods.html.

Use of Noise Barrier, Noise Enclosure and Noise Insulating Fabric

4.5.4.4 Cantilevered noise barriers with a surface density of at least 10kg/m² have been proposed to screen noise from movable and stationary plant to NSRs. Noise barrier shall be placed as close to the PME as possible and a location intercepting the line of sight between NSRs and PME. With reference to EIAO Guidance Note No.9/2010, noise reduction of 5dB(A) and 10dB(A) can be achieved by noise barriers for movable and stationary plant respectively. The schematic drawing of noise barrier and section drawing are shown in Appendix 4.5.

4.5.4.5 Noise enclosures with covers at top and three sides have been proposed to screen noise from generally static noisy plant such as air compressors. The open side shall be faced away to the NSRs. The surface density shall be of at least 10kg/m² with internal sound absorptive material. With reference to EIAO Guidance Note No.9/2010, it is capable of a 15dB(A) reduction of noise. The schematic drawing of enclosure is shown in Appendix 4.5.

4.5.4.6 Noise insulating fabric can also be adopted for certain PME (e.g. Piling, large diameter bored, reverse circulation drill). According to the approved West Island Line EIA Report (Register No.: AEIAR-153/2008), a noise reduction of 10dB(A) can be achieved for the PME lapped with the noise insulating fabric. The fabric should be lapped such that there would be no openings or gaps on the joints. Subject to the work arrangement in construction stage, the Contractor may propose other form of mitigation measures to achieve the full compliance.

Assessment Results

4.5.4.7 With the implementation of quieter construction methods, QPME, noise barriers, noise enclosures and noise insulating fabric, the predicted construction noise levels at representative construction NSRs have been predicted and are summarised in Table 4.9 below. Detailed results are presented in Appendix 4.7.

Table 4.9 Predicted Construction Noise Levels under Mitigated Scenario

NSR ID	NAP ID	Location / Description	Uses ^[1]	Predicted Construction Noise Level, Mitigated, L_eq_(30mins), dB(A)
N01	N01a	Seaview Crescent Block 1	R	53 - 63
N01	N01b	Seaview Crescent Block 3	R	54 - 62
N03	N03a	Ling Liang Church E Wun Secondary School	E	50 - 57
N08	N08a	Fu Tung Estate Tung Ma House	R	52 - 59
N09	N09a	Tung Chung Crescent Block 5 (Point 1)	R	55 - 62
	N09b	Tung Chung Crescent Block 3	R	54 - 60
	N09c	Tung Chung Crescent Block 5 (Point 2)	R	54 - 59
N10^[2]	N10a	Priests’ Quarters of the Planned Visitation Church Development	R	61 - 75

Note:

[1] R – Residential/ Domestic Premises; E – Educational Institution/ School.

4.5.4.8 With the implementation of quieter construction methods, quieter plant, appropriate temporary noise barriers, noise insulating fabric and noise enclosure, the predicted construction noise level would comply with the relevant noise criteria, adverse construction noise impact would not be anticipated.

Good Site Practices

4.5.4.9 In addition to the mitigation measures listed above, there are also some good site practices that can further reduce the noise levels at NSRs. However, they are non-quantifiable and thus not included in the assessment. These include:

· Only well-maintained plant should be operated on-site and plants should be serviced regularly during the construction period;

· Mobile plant, if any, should be sited as far from NSRs as possible;

· Plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction should, wherever possible, be properly orientated so that the noise is directed away from the nearby NSRs;

· Use of site hoarding as a noise barrier to screen noise at low level NSRs;

· Machines and plant that may be used intermittently should be shut down between works periods or should be throttled down to a minimum; and

· Any material stockpiles and other structures should be effectively utilised, wherever practicable, to screen the noise from on-site construction activities.

4.5.4.10 With the implementation of the abovementioned further mitigation measures, no adverse construction noise impact is expected. The abovementioned mitigation measures were proposed based on the current project planning and design. A Construction Noise Management Plan (CNMP) with reference to Section 8 and Annex 21 of the EIAO-TM, will be prepared to submit during pre-tender stage, if any, and before commencement of construction works, so that both the verification of the inventory of noise sources, and the assessment of the effectiveness and practicality of all identified measures for mitigating the construction noise impact of the Project, will be performed during the design, tendering and implementation stage of the construction works. To further mitigate construction noise impacts, additional quieter construction equipment / methods, would be adopted in the CNMP as far as practicable. The use of quieter construction equipment / methods, if necessary, will be further reviewed in detailed design and construction stages, and in the CNMP. A clear method statement of all the recommended mitigation measures for controlling the construction noise impacts should be formulated in the CNMP to be prepared by future Contractors, such that all the recommended mitigation measures will be implemented and executed properly.

4.5.5 Residual Impacts

4.5.5.1 Construction noise impacts on the representative construction NSRs have been assessed and comply with the daytime construction noise standards. No residual impact is anticipated during the construction phase of the Project.

4.6 Operational Noise Impact Assessment

4.6.1 Identification of Noise Impacts

4.6.1.1 The assessment area for noise impact generally includes areas within 300m from the boundary of the Project area and the works of the Project. The assessment area is shown in Figure 4.1.

4.6.1.2 Operational noise assessment points (NAPs) have been assigned for the NSRs for fixed noise impact assessment which are closest to the fixed noise sources. The proposed fixed noise criteria and operational NAPs are summarised in Table 4.10. Locations of the proposed fixed plants are shown in Figure 4.1and Figure 4.8.

4.6.1.3 The fixed noise impact from ATCL alignment outside 300m to the representative operational NAPs are predicted as negligible due to great advantage in distance attenuation.

Table 4.10 Representative Operational NAPs

NSR ID	NAP ID	Location/ Description	No. of Storey	Distance from the ATCL, m	Uses ^[1]	Noise Criteria, L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A) (Day & Evening time/ Nighttime)
N01	N01a	Seaview Crescent Block 1	49	195	R	65 / 55
N01	N01b	Seaview Crescent Block 3	49	197	R	65 / 55
N09	N09a	Tung Chung Crescent Block 5	34	176	R	65 / 55
N10	N10a	Priests’ Quarters of the Planned Visitation Church Development	3	15	R	65 / 55

Note:

[1] R – Residential/ Domestic Premises.

Potential Noise Sources

4.6.1.4 For the proposed depot and plant room, noise will be generated by operation of workshop for vehicle maintenance, Mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems and building services equipment of the office. However, the proposed depot and plant room will be located at approximately 620m and 550m respectively from the nearest representative operational NAP (i.e. N01a). Given the large separation, significant fixed noise sources impact due to the proposed facilities is not anticipated.

4.6.1.5 For the marine facilities, noise will be generated by MEP system and building services equipment of the office. However, the marine facilities will be located at 2.3km from the nearest representative operational NAP (i.e. N01a). Given the large separation, significant fixed noise impact due to the proposed facilities is not anticipated.

4.6.1.6 For the proposed stations, natural ventilation will be adopted. Noise impact from mechanical ventilation system is not expected. There are no other fixed plant at the proposed stations.

4.6.1.7 During the operational phase, zero emission vehicles (e.g. electric vehicle) will be used for the ATCL. Motor noise and tyre/road noise will be major noise contributions on the zero emission vehicles during operation. Noise generated by zero emission vehicles from proposed TCC station will be partially screened by roof canopy and the roof canopy is shown in Figure 4.9. Idling, manoeuvring, cruise, accelerating and decelerating operation mode of zero emission vehicles have been considered as follow:

· Idling: Idling will occur only when there is a pick-up or drop-off of passengers in proposed stations. No tyre/road noise will be generated. Minor motor noise and internal cooling system noise will be partially screened by the roof canopy. The predicted noise impact to the NSRs is minimal.

· Manoeuvring: Manoeuvring will occur only in proposed stations and moving in and out to pick-up or drop-off location. Minor motor noise and tyre/road noise are expected. Maximum travelling of 20 kph is assumed in manoeuvring mode.

· Cruise: During the cruise mode, the zero emission vehicle will travel at a steady speed with maximum design speed at 40 kph. Maximum motor and tyre/road noise is expected under this operation mode.

· Acceleration: Higher power is required for accelerating the zero emission vehicle. However, gentle acceleration of the zero emission vehicles shall be maintained, significant noise generated during acceleration is not anticipated. For comparison with manoeuvring mode, motor noise may be higher but relatively quieter from tyre/road noise. Overall, the noise emission during acceleration should be similar with noise during manoeuvring mode.

· Deceleration: Power input for the electric motor will reduce, the corresponding decrease in motor noise and tyre/road noise are expected. Also, gentle deceleration of the zero emission vehicles shall be maintained. As such, grinding or rubbing brake noise is not anticipated.

Frequency and Alignment

4.6.1.8 Base on the design traffic flow confirmed by Traffic Consultant and AAHK, the design maximum traffic flow of zero emission vehicles between chainage CH 0.00 and CH 600.00, as shown in Figure 4.8, would be 140 vehicles per 30 minutes for two-way traffic during day and evening period (0700 – 2300), while 14 vehicles per 30 minutes for two-way traffic during nighttime (2300 – 0700).

4.6.2 Assessment Methodology

4.6.2.1 Predicted noise levels from the movement of zero emission vehicles on the ATCL shall be based on standard acoustic principles, ISO 9613-2 Acoustics- Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors – Part 2: General method of calculation and IND-TM, and maximum permissible SWL for zero emission vehicles is calculated as below:

Where:

Maximum Permissible SWL = Maximum Permissible Sound Power Level in dB(A)

SPL = Noise criteria in dB(A)

Q = Directivity factor (Semi-sphere = 2)

r = Distance between noise assessment point from the centre of the segment and noise receiver, in meters (m)

V = Number of vehicles per 30 minutes

t = Time duration of zero emission vehicles in the segment in second

C_façade = Façade Correction in dB(A)

4.6.2.2 A positive 3dB(A) correction would be added to predicted fixed noise levels at the NSRs due to façade effect. If the noise exhibits any tonal, impulsive or intermittent characteristics during the operation of the zero emission vehicles, the measured noise level should be corrected in accordance with the recommendations given in Section 3.3 of IND-TM.

4.6.3 Evaluation of Fixed Noise

4.6.3.1 The fixed noise source impact assessment of the worst operation mode representing the maximum noise emission has been conducted with respect to the criteria set out in Annex 5 of the TM. The maximum SWL (i.e. 100 dB(A)) of zero emission vehicles has been predicted based on backward calculation of separation distance, time duration and maximum traffic flow. Validity of the operation modes have been confirmed with the Project Proponent. Also, the Project Proponent is committed to acquire zero emission vehicles with a maximum SWL of 100 dB(A) or below, and confirmed that which are available in the market today.

4.6.3.2 The predicted fixed noise levels at the representative operational NAPs using the maximum permissible SWL of the zero emission vehicle are summarized in Table 4.11. Details of calculation are presented in Appendix 4.8. The predicted noise levels at all the representative NSRs comply with both day and evening time, and night-time noise criteria and thus, there would be no adverse fixed noise impact arising from the Project.

Table 4.11 Predicted Fixed Noise Levels

NSR ID	NAP ID	Maximum Permissible SWL of Zero Emission Vehicle, dB(A)	Predicted Fixed Noise Level, L_eq_{(30 mins)}, dB(A)
NSR ID	NAP ID	Maximum Permissible SWL of Zero Emission Vehicle, dB(A)	Day & Evening time	Night-time
N01	N01a	100	54	44
N01	N01b		54	44
N09	N09a		54	44
N10	N10a		65	55

4.6.4 Residual Fixed Noise Impact

4.6.4.1 With proper selection of zero emission vehicles with maximum SWL of 100dB(A), no noise mitigation measures shall be required and no residual impact is expected at the representative operational NSRs.

4.7 Concurrent Projects

4.7.1.1 Key concurrent projects in the vicinity of the proposed ATCL Project are identified in Section 2.9. Noise impacts of all concurrent projects have been discussed below.

Tung Chung New Town Extension

4.7.1.2 According to the approved EIA Report for the Tung Chung New Town Extension (TCNTE) (Register No.: AEIAR-196/2016), construction works for the TCNTE project was commenced in 2021 and be completed in 2030. The worksites of TCNTE are far away from the identified NSRs, the approximate distance to the nearest NSR (i.e. Seaview Crescent) is outside 300m assessment area of the Project, therefore, adverse cumulative construction and operation noise impact are not anticipated.

Tung Chung Line Extension

4.7.1.3 According to the approved EIA report for the Tung Chung Line Extension (Register No.: AEIAR-235/2022), the construction of the Tung Chung Line Extension will commence in Q2 2023. It is targeted to be completed in Q4 2029. Hence, there will be concurrent construction with the ATCL.

4.7.1.4 Cumulative construction noise impact at Tung Chung Crescent is assessed as some of the NSRs at Tung Chung Crescent (i.e. NAP N09b and N09c) may see both the construction site of Tung Chung Line Extension and that of ATCL. Hence, Tung Chung Crescent is considered as the most affected NSR.

4.7.1.5 In the construction noise impact assessment of this EIA (Section 4.5), the predicted maximum construction noise levels from the Project at the most affected NSR under mitigated scenario is 60 dB(A). The maximum mitigated construction noise level at the nearest NSR to the site of Tung Chung Line Extension in Tung Chung Crescent is 74 dB(A) according to the Tung Chung Line Extension EIA report Register (No.: AEIAR-235/2022). As such, the cumulative construction noise level is predicted as 74 dB(A), which is below the assessment criterion of 75 dB(A). Hence, it is considered that there would be no adverse cumulative construction impact.

4.7.1.6 Although adverse cumulative construction noise impact is not anticipated, the cumulative construction noise impacts should be further reviewed during the preparation of the CNMP.

4.7.1.7 Cumulative fixed noise impact at Tung Chung Crescent is assessed as it is considered as the most affected NSR. The predicted fixed noise levels at Tung Chung Crescent is 54 dB(A) (daytime and evening time) and 44 dB(A) (night time). For conservative approach, the predicted fixed noise level in Tung Chung Crescent Block 3 is adopted in this assessment, which is 60 dB(A) for day and evening, and 53 dB(A) for nighttime according to the Tung Chung Line Extension EIA report Register (No.: AEIAR-235/2022).

4.7.1.8 The predicted cumulative impact at the most affected NSR is 61 dB(A) and 54 dB(A) for day and evening, and nighttime respectively. Thus, it is anticipated that the cumulative fixed noise impact will comply with the relevant noise criteria.

4.7.1.9 In conclusion, adverse cumulative fixed noise impacts are not anticipated.

Planned Visitation Church Development

4.7.1.10 According to the best available information by AAHK, the tentative construction works was target to complete in early 2026. The projects will be overlapped with ATCL Project from late 2025 to early 2026. The detailed construction programme and plant inventory for construction of planned visitation church development are not available during preparation of this EIA report. However, the major construction works for the planned visitation church including site formation, excavation and foundation works are expected to be completed before the commencement of the construction of the Project, and only minor superstructure and fitting-out works of the planned visitation church are expected in this overlapped period. Furthermore, the nearest NSRs (e.g. N09) is located from the planned visitation church development at around 190m and the construction works of the planned visitation church is in small scale, thus, the cumulative construction noise impact with the Project is not anticipated. The construction programme of the planned visitation church development will be further reviewed during the preparation of the CNMP.

Commercial Development-cum-Public Market in Tung Chung Area 6

4.7.1.11 The size of the potential development is relatively small with approximate 0.6 hectare and only includes a commercial building. The development programme has yet confirmed during the course of this EIA study. Considering limited noise impacts would be arisen from a small-scale commercial building development, the cumulative construction noise impact with the Project is not anticipated.

Other Adjacent Developments

4.7.1.12 The construction works period of each concurrent project with approximately distance to nearest NSR (i.e.: N01) is identified and shown in Table 4.12. The projects are overlapped with ATCL Project, but there are no identified NSRs within 300m assessment area, and hence, adverse cumulative construction and operation noise impact is not anticipated.

Table 4.12 Construction Period of Adjacent Developments and Approximately Distance to Noise Sensitive Receiver

Project Name	Construction Commencement Dates	Construction Completion Dates	Approximately distance from site boundary to nearest NSR
11 SKIES	2017	2023	~2.8km
Airportcity Link	2022	2025	~2.8km
SkyPier Terminal Bonded Bridge	2020	2023	~2.8km
Commercial Developments at East Coast Support Area	2025	2035	~ 0.6km
Development of Airport-related Supporting Uses at HKP Island	2021	2030	~ 2.5km
Planned Commercial Development	Programme not available and under planning		~ 2.4km

4.7.1.13 As discussed in Section 4.7.1.1 to Section 4.7.1.12, concurrent projects have been considered and adverse cumulative construction and operational noise impacts are not anticipated.

4.8 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

4.8.1 Construction Phase

4.8.1.1 The assessment has concluded that, with the implementation of noise mitigation measures, no adverse construction noise impacts would be anticipated during the construction phase. Details of the monitoring and auditing programme are provided in a standalone EM&A Manual.

4.8.2 Operational Phase

4.8.2.1 The assessment has indicated that the noise from zero emission vehicles would be comply with the EIAO-TM noise criteria. The zero emission vehicles would meet the maximum permissible SWL. Monitoring of fixed noise from the zero emission vehicle during the testing and commissioning stage prior to operation of ATCL shall be conducted to check the compliance of the noise criteria.

4.9 Conclusions

4.9.1.1 The potential noise impacts associated with the Project in the construction and operational phases have been assessed.

4.9.1.2 The noise impacts arising from daytime construction activities for the Project have been evaluated. No evening or night-time construction works will be scheduled. With proper implementation of noise mitigation measures (e.g. quieter construction methods, quieter PMEs, temporary barrier / enclosure etc.), the predicted construction noise levels at all representative construction NAPs will comply with the relevant construction noise criteria. Hence, no adverse construction noise impacts are anticipated. In addition, a CNMP will be prepared to submit during pre-tender stage, if any, and before commencement of construction works, so that both the verification of the inventory of noise sources, and the assessment of the effectiveness and practicality of all identified measures for mitigating the construction noise impact of the Project, will be performed during the design, tendering and implementation stage of the construction works.

4.9.1.3 Fixed noise from depot, plant room and marine facilities are minimal to the nearest representative NSRs due to large separation. Natural ventilation will be adopted for proposed stations and there is no other fixed noise plant at the stations. For the fixed noise from zero emission vehicle, with the proper selection of zero emission vehicle (i.e. maximum SWL of 100 dB(A)), adverse fixed noise impacts from the Project are not anticipated. Specific noise mitigation measures in operational phase are therefore not required. However, noise commissioning test for zero emission vehicles shall be conducted prior to operation of ATCL to check the compliance of the noise criteria.