Irwin Carr undertook underwater noise monitoring and modelling at Warrenpoint Harbour to characterise the acoustic environment associated with commercial vessel traffic and maintenance dredging. The study involved deployment of calibrated hydrophone systems to record real‑world underwater sound levels, allowing vessel source levels to be derived and assessed within a robust modelling framework.

The monitoring data was used to model noise propagation and assess potential impacts on marine mammals and fish species, applying recognised hearing group weightings and impact thresholds. The assessment demonstrated that while vessel movements and dredging generate measurable underwater noise, predicted impact zones were manageable and localised, particularly when realistic animal behaviour was considered. The work provided a defensible evidence base to support port operations and future noise management.