Information on noise nuisance

Demolition and construction companies must ensure that noise levels are kept to a minimum by using the best practicable means to silence their operations.

For operations that will be audible outside the site boundary, it is our experience that few complaints regarding early start of working will be made when the following working hours are adopted:

• Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm
• Saturday: 9am-1pm
• With no working on Sundays or Public Holidays.

Pile driving and other specialist noisy operations may need more stringent controls to be applied.

In particular, pumps or generators that can be heard at the site boundary should not be left running overnight.

The Council has legal powers under Section 60 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 and Section 80 and 80A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to serve notices on contractors in order to limit their operations where noise problems arise.

Occupiers of neighbouring properties, both residential and commercial, also have the right to pursue legal action against contractors under the same legislation.

Should you feel that your project will have a significant impact on neighbouring premises, from noise or vibration, it is possible to apply to the Council for a 'prior consent' (under Section 61 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974).

This is an agreement between the developer and the Council which allows a certain level of noise to occur. Having such an agreement can protect you from further legal action.

Do It Yourself (DIY)

If you are a householder doing some or all of the work yourself, you will probably want to do a lot of the work at weekends or evenings.

In this case, please try and restrict the noisy and dusty operations to Saturdays and daylight hours.

Remember that your neighbours normally expect peace and quiet at weekends and may have children trying to sleep.