Number of noise complaints rise in NI

The Department of Environment (DOE) has today revealed that noise complaints in Northern Ireland have increased by 13% over the last year.

The report provides information relating to the number and type of noise complaints received by all 26 district councils in Northern Ireland, from 2005 to 2006.

District councils have the main responsibility for investigating and dealing with most types of complaint about noise nuisance from the general public.

Environment Minister David Cairns said: "This clearly shows how noise pollution is a serious issue for many people. We must all remember that when we make too mush noise it can cause severe distress to those affected by it.”

He continued: "Most noise complaints involve noise between neighbours. These can be prevented by greater co-operation between neighbours and by people behaving in a considerate manner. Where neighbours behave unreasonably and cause noise nuisance, action can be taken by local councils."

The statistics show that since 2005, there were 11,337 noise complaints made to councils, with over half of the complaints being received by Belfast City Council.

Significant numbers of complaints were also received by Coleraine Borough Council, while Castlereagh, Dungannon & South Tyrone, Fermanagh and Magherafelt Councils received the lowest level of noise complaint.

The vast majority of complaints made to district councils, 85%, were in relation to noise from domestic premises, such as barking dogs and loud music.

Commercial premises and leisure facilities accounted for 6% of all noise complaints, with the main source being pubs and clubs.

Only 2% of complaints related to noise from industrial activities.

(EF)