Cutting the cost of noise to neighbourhoods

We all hear noise from our neighbours. Noise is part of everyday life. But too much noise in the wrong place and at the wrong time can cause disturbance annoyance and upset!

That’s the message coming “loud and clear”, during Noise Action Week (18-23 May 2015), from the Anti Social Behaviour Forum. The Forum, whose representatives include officers from Newry Mourne and Down District Council, The Northern Ireland Housing Executive, The Police Service of Northern Ireland and Youth Justice Agency, meet on a regular basis and work together to reduce the impact of anti social behaviour on our neighbourhoods. Nuisance noise is always high on the agenda. The most frequent complaints received are about barking dogs, loud music or TVs, shouting, banging doors and DIY activities.

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Councillor Naomi Bailie recently took time out to meet the Forum.  Councillor Bailie was impressed with the work undertaken by all the agencies who take part in the Forum commenting “Noise can be a nuisance and therefore I would ask every citizen to consider how the noise they generate at home, however short term, can cause disturbance to those who live nearby.”

Also speaking at the Forum the Council’s Senior Environmental Health Officer Sinead Trainor said “no house or flat is totally soundproof. We all need to have consideration for our neighbours. By raising awareness of noise problems and solutions during Noise Action Week we are aiming to cut the cost of noise to our health and well being, as well as the cost of the services frequently called on to sort out noise problems”.

“The Forum is attended by all the main agencies and so is well placed to discuss complaints that have been received and work in partnership to provide advice and assistance to complainants” she added. 

If you are bothered by Noise and would like advice please contact The Health and Wellbeing Department of Newry Mourne and Down District Council on 0300 013 2233.

For further information on Noise Action Week 2015 visit www.noiseactionweek.org