5th April 2007, 07/119
Turn down the volume!
Keep the noise down because we're listening', is the message from
West Lancashire District Council who are targeting this nuisance
problem.
The Council has increased its out-of-hours service to monitor noise
levels across the district in a bid to curb the volume of
incidents.
Environmental Protection Officers go out on a monthly basis at
hotspot locations over the weekend when it's more likely to be
rowdy. They target domestic and commercial premises, particularly
those places where there have been previous complaints logged to
investigate the matter.
Noisy neighbours, public houses and other loud premises can come
under surveillance to ensure that they are keeping it down.
The initiative has had an impact and the Council has already been
able to take legal action on several occasions to curb the
noise.
In one recent successful case the Sandbrook Arms pub in Up Holland
had its regulated entertainment licence taken away by the Council's
Licensing Committee following a string of complaints. Live bands
and karaoke are banned and the premises are only allowed to play
background music so as not to disturb their neighbours.
Now with the warmer months fast approaching and noise levels likely
to increase the Council is asking people to be more
considerate.
Dave Tilleray, Executive Manager Community Services, said: "Our
monthly night patrols to monitor noise levels across the district
is having a positive impact on this type of problem. But the warmer
weather always sees an increase in noise levels from parties,
windows left open causing noise to drift out, late night outdoor
gatherings, the music blasting, barbeques and when the children are
off school. So whilst it might be tempting to turn up the volume,
it's worth thinking about your neighbours or you may end up getting
more than the silence treatment."
When the Council receives a noise complaint it will write to the
person but if it continues will assess whether further action is
needed based on factors such as loudness, frequency, and the time
of day and how long it lasts for.
If you are being bothered by noise don't suffer in silence, you can
contact the Council for help. Either visit the Environmental Health
section, contact the Council's Environmental Protection Team on
01695 577177 or visit the Council offices.
People can also make a complaint directly to the Magistrate's
Courts, for which the Council can advise on, although it is
recommended that people take legal advice before commencing any
action.
Related information
> Council
news
> Environmental protection