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Ulster University
Ulster University
News Upload Date: 6th June, 2025
Noise Update
Noise Update
Ulster University Investigates Noise Breach Linked to Building Works
Ulster University Investigates Noise Breach Linked to Building Works
Ulster University has confirmed that recent investigations indicate noise levels associated with ongoing construction works may breach planning approval conditions. The issue has been classified as a contractual defect.
The matter has now been referred to the university’s Building Project Director, who has formally notified the contractor and is awaiting a response. The contractor has been asked to provide a timeline for addressing the issue, with the university stressing the need for urgent action.
In the interim, the university took immediate steps to reduce noise levels by switching off two of the three remaining operational pumps on Wednesday, leaving only one in use. Follow-up sound testing has shown a significant reduction in noise as a result.
Ulster University has stated it will issue further updates as soon as more information becomes available.
Latest Noise Update
Latest Noise Update
News Upload Date: 12th April, 2025
Noise Investigation
Noise Investigation
Update on Humming Noise Investigation at Ulster University
Update on Humming Noise Investigation at Ulster University
The Ulster University has identified the source of the persistent humming noise affecting the area and is actively working to resolve the issue.
Following a detailed investigation, the cause has been traced to faulty vacuum pumps located on the Level 09 roof of the Main Building. There are nine pumps in total, each of which has now been tested. As a temporary measure to reduce the noise, only three pumps are currently in operation. UU continues to explore whether additional pumps can be safely switched off without impacting operations.
Specialist contractors have advised that the existing pumps may be over-specified for their purpose, which could result in continued noise even after servicing or refurbishment. UU has therefore requested alternative proposals. These include the use of quieter or demand-driven pumps and a potential reduction in the overall number of units.
In parallel, The Ulster University is progressing with the installation of noise-mitigating measures. Soundproofing materials have been procured and are currently being fitted to the active pumps. Once installation is complete, further noise measurements will be taken to assess the effectiveness of the improvements.
The University is still awaiting detailed proposals and costings from the pump specialists and is urging for an expedited resolution. It is hoped that a permanent solution will be implemented within the coming weeks.
The Ulster University sincerely apologises to all affected residents for the inconvenience and appreciates their patience as the team works towards a long-term fix.
The LARG website will continue to provide updates as they develop.
Noise Update
Noise Update
News Upload Date: 7th March, 2025
Noise Issue Update
Noise Issue Update
The Noise Source Identified
The Noise Source Identified
The source of the noise issue that has been affecting the local area has now been identified as being caused by the vacuum pumps on the roof of Block BC on the Ulster University building.
The University's maintenance providers have turned off six of the nine pumps, significantly reducing noise levels. However, Pump No.7, which is essential for operations, remains in use and continues to generate higher-than-acceptable noise.
A specialist contractor visited the campus on Tuesday the 4th of March to inspect and refurbish one of the isolated pumps. Once ready, it will replace Pump No.7, with the swap expected within the next two weeks.
Neighbourhood Noise
Neighbourhood Noise
News Upload Date: 25th February, 2025
Residents Tormented By A Constant 'Loud Humming Noise'
Residents Tormented By A Constant 'Loud Humming Noise'
The noise is loudest around Donegall Street, between Ulster University and St. Patrick's Church.
The noise is loudest around Donegall Street, between Ulster University and St. Patrick's Church.
Residents in North Belfast report being disturbed by a persistent "loud humming noise" that continues 24/7. The sound, compared to a "loud generator," has affected areas including New Lodge, Carrick Hill, North Queen Street, and Lancaster Street for at least a month—some say since before Christmas.
Local man Archie Coogan told Belfast Live the noise is disrupting daily life, with many struggling to sleep. "Even with windows closed, it still comes through. It’s driving everyone mad," he said.
The noise seems loudest near Donegall Street, between Ulster University and St. Patrick's Church. Archie suspects large cranes in the area, possibly running on generators, could be the cause.
Belfast City Council confirmed receiving one complaint on February 23 and is investigating.
A global phenomenon known as "the hum" has been reported worldwide, with theories ranging from industrial sources to the unexplained. Similar cases have been noted across Belfast, including Omagh and Claudy, with the BBC even covering The Omagh Hum in a documentary.
New Sports Centre Now Open
News Upload Date: 17th September, 2024
Free Day Pass!
Free Day Pass!
The Ulster University's 'Belfast Sports Centre' is now open!! And to mark the event there is a FREE day pass available to the public. The Day pass valid until the 13th October 2024.
The Ulster University's 'Belfast Sports Centre' is now open!! And to mark the event there is a FREE day pass available to the public. The Day pass valid until the 13th October 2024.
The centre is open to the public and the centre is state of the art facilities such as: gym, sports hall, spin studio, wellbeing studios, rooftop running track. At moment you can also snap up 20% Off offer too!
The centre is open to the public and the centre is state of the art facilities such as: gym, sports hall, spin studio, wellbeing studios, rooftop running track. At moment you can also snap up 20% Off offer too!
You can book a tour or find out more information at: http://ulster.ac.uk/belfastsportscentre.
You can book a tour or find out more information at: http://ulster.ac.uk/belfastsportscentre.
Belfast Thrives Project
News Upload Date: 13th December, 2023
'Belfast Thrives' video. New collaboration project which examines how the City Centre can be improved, inclusive and innovative place for future generations.
Belfast Thrives
Belfast Thrives
Belfast THRI[VES] is a pilot collaboration between Ulster University’s Belfast School of Architecture and the Built Environment, the School of Psychology, and Bamford Centre for Mental Health & Wellbeing, working with Partners from Belfast City Council and The Department for Infrastructure. It examines how the City Centre can be an improved, inclusive, and innovative place for future generations. It also investigates the role of public-private engagement to reframe wellbeing-based criteria and more effectively connect statutory and tactical regeneration process to more informal bottom-up evidence-based considerations that can collectively address and develop innovative solutions to tackle health, climate-change, and socio-economic stresses. Project Report
Invitation To Public
Invitation To Public
News Upload Date: 28th November, 2023
Public Invited To Use University's Libraries
Public Invited To Use University's Libraries
The Library Civic Access Borrower Scheme is now being re-introduced to library users across Northern Ireland allowing them to apply to join Ulster University’s libraries as a borrower.
The Library Civic Access Borrower Scheme is now being re-introduced to library users across Northern Ireland allowing them to apply to join Ulster University’s libraries as a borrower.
First launched in 2019, the scheme invites all current member of Libraries NI (the Northern Ireland public library service), who are aged 18 or over, to access the scheme and borrow print material from the University’s three campus libraries, located in Belfast, Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry.
Civic Access borrowers may borrow up to two standard loan books from any of the campus libraries and can also access the inter Campus Loan Service but will need to speak to a member of university library staff directly to do this.
Initial membership of the Civic Access Scheme is for a period of two years and can be renewed as necessary.
How to apply for membership
How to apply for membership
All applications for the Library Civic Access Borrower Scheme must be made via the online application form.
Once your application is accepted, you will be sent a guide for Civic Access borrowers using the university library along with your new borrower card.
Further information
Further information
Civic access users will be able to avail of a modern learning space providing integrated library services, resources and study space, with generous opening hours.
Details of all campus libraries – including services and opening hours – can be found by visiting the Library
Further information is available on the Membership of the Library Civic Access Borrower Scheme
Inside the University!
News Upload Date: 4th August, 2023
Walk around tour of Ulster University.
Residents Receive Tour Of Ulster University Campus Building
Residents Receive Tour Of Ulster University Campus Building
On the 4th August 2023 as part of the New Lodge Festival the Ulster University welcomed local residents living in the immediate vicinity of the new University campus to drop in to the University to have a chat with University staff and in the process meet up with your neighbours to enjoy some food, music and craic. During the event the local residents group LARG will launch its new website that is aimed at enhancing information flow and expanding opportunities for residents to become more active in the development of their local community.
Whats on Campus?
News Upload Date: 18th September, 2023
Campus Is Open To The Public
Campus Is Open To The Public
The Ulster University ground and first floors of the new main teaching Block (Block BC) on the Belfast campus are open to the public.
The Ulster University ground and first floors of the new main teaching Block (Block BC) on the Belfast campus are open to the public.
Aromaroma Starbucks
Aromaroma Starbucks
AromaRoma is open from 8am-7pm and is to the right of the main York Street entrance on the ground floor of Block BC. It is a strong, drinks led coffee shop with a product range including Starbucks 'We Proudly Brew' Coffee and a full range of Starbucks cold drinks, in addition to a range of fresh smoothies, pressed juices, Boba drinks, sandwiches and other grab & Go items.
The Junction
The Junction
The Junction is open from 9am – 3pm and is located to the rear of the main reception walkway on the ground floor level of Block BC. It is accessible by the main York Street entrance and the Frederick Street entrance. The Junction offers a wide range of hot and cold snacks and meals to sit in or take away.
Street Beats
Street Beats
Street Beats is open from 8am-7pm and is located on the ground floor level of Block BC, It is simply Street Food at its best with a quick serve Deli counter selection of soup, sandwiches and salads with Barista coffee.
The Art Gallery
The Art Gallery
With a full annual Programme of FREE exhibitions is beside the main reception in Block BC.
Signature on-campus events throughout the year. Details of the art galley and wider events programme is updated regularly on https://www.ulster.ac.uk/ulsterpresents/whats-on or you can sign up to the newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/ulster/presents.
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