What is the 'loud thumping' noise near Govan shipyard?

Residents have gotten in touch after hearing a “rhythmic” sound come from the BAE Systems yard.

They reported that the sound can be heard throughout the day and night, leaving them wondering what the noise could be.

Shipbuilding in Glasgow has seen a huge advancement (Image: Newsquest)

Resident Mike Docherty, who lives in the opposite side of the River Clyde in Broomhill, told the Glasgow Times: “In the last year or so on many days of the week a loud rhythmic thumping can be heard echoing out across the area. 

“The level of noise varies as does the time it takes place. 

“It appears that the noise is coming from the shipyard just across the river where the new warship is being built. 

“In all my time living in this area I've only ever heard a noise like this in the last year.”

Residents can hear the noise on both sides of the river (Image: Colin Mearns)

It is believed the sound is coming from the construction of the new ship build hall in the Southside.

This involves piling which is the process of driving foundations into the ground beneath a building that is under construction. 

These piles transfer loads from the structure to the ground, helping to support it and could be a loud process.

Foundations work for the new facility is currently underway and is due to complete in February.

We previously reported how work is underway in Govan to build the next generation of Royal Navy warships.

The Type 26 frigate production is moving at pace as BAE Systems Naval Ships has three in production at the yard and one at Scotstoun.

Residents living near the works also took to Reddit to share their experiences of the noise coming from near the shipyard.

Residents heard thumping from the shipyard (Image: Colin Mearns)

One Reddit user said: “Does anyone know how long the building work at BAE systems is supposed to go on for?

“I live in Linthouse and the incessant pile driving noise is doing my nut in.

"Some days it's so loud it's like it's in the same room.”

A second Reddit user said: “They're building three Type 26 frigates and have more to start. 
“It's going to be a while.”

A third Reddit user said: “I work from home in Partick and it’s absolutely brutal.

"Can’t imagine how it must be for those closer!”

A fourth Reddit user said: “It's the building of the new shed your hearing, they are piling the ground at the moment.”

If you live near the Govan shipyard you may have asked “what is that loud thumping noise?” (Image: Colin Mearns)

A BAE Systems spokesperson said: “We are in regular communication with our contractor responsible for the construction of the new ship build hall in Govan. 

“Any work that emits above certain noise levels is restricted to 07.00-19.00 on weekdays, and 07.00-13.00 on a Saturday. 

“Foundations work for the new facility is currently underway and is due to complete in February.

 “Construction of the new ship build hall is expected to complete in 2025 and will secure Glasgow’s status as a shipbuilding centre of excellence for generations to come.”