Preliminary Insights from Pilot of a Longitudinal Study on the Impact of Heathrow's Noise Insulation Scheme on Quality of Life and Health

Heathrow Airport Ltd has commissioned a pilot of a longitudinal study to evaluate the impact of its Noise Insulation Scheme (NIS) on residents' quality of life (QoL) and health outcomes. Despite widespread implementation of NISs as a mitigation measure, empirical evidence on its effectiveness to improve QoL and health remains limited. This before- and after-study aims to assess and establish baseline levels of QoL and health (noise annoyance; self-reported sleep disturbance, wellbeing) among residents, and changes 3-months and 12-months after the installation of insulation. The pilot, initiated in 2023, is refining methodologies, including acoustic measurements and participant recruitment, and response rates. Findings from the pilot will inform a full-scale study which will analyse longitudinal changes across a larger cohort. This presentation will share emerging trends and methodological insights from the pilot phase, setting the stage for further discussion on the broader implications of noise insulation interventions.