A LEOMINSTER business has written an open letter to the town’s residents regarding a low frequency noise which is thought to be linked to the firm.

BPI Films, based on Worcester Road, has taken steps to assure Leominster residents, who say the noise keeps them awake at night, that they are developing an action plan to continue to tackle the problem.

The Hereford Times has previously reported on the ‘Leominster Hum’ – as the nuisance noise has been named – and in August 2015 plans were approved for the installation of sound barriers including noise suppression louvres, acoustic panel surround and silencers to chiller units.

But a number of residents who are affected by the low frequency noise say things have not improved and that action is still required.

Leominster Town Council, which has been holding meetings with BPI, was told last week by residents that some are left ‘in tears’ because they cannot sleep.

The town council has since published an open letter from BPI online which states the firm’s desire to be a ‘good neighbour’, having invested nearly £50,000 in noise reduction works in 2015/2016 to reduce the impact of noise generated by the business.

The letter said: “We were extremely disappointed that some local residents did not report a marked improvement in the noise following this.

“Subsequently, in July 2016, BPI commissioned specialist environmental consultants RPS to conduct a thorough noise assessment of noise emanating from the site.

“This was carried out before and during the summer shutdown in August so that comparisons could be made against the background noise.”

The results of this survey show that there are measures that can be taken to reduce the levels of high frequency and low frequency noise emanating from the site further, it said.

“BPI have thus re-engaged RPS to further investigate actions that can be taken to reduce the noise levels and frequencies that appear to have the most adverse effect on residents.

“RPS are now re-visiting the site to identify root causes of noise generated, and are engaging with suitable contractors to develop an action plan.”

They said it is hoped an action plan will be ready for release by the end of May.