Environment Minister, Arlene Foster said the report provides information on the number and type of noise complaints received by the 26 district councils in Northern Ireland for the period 2006/07.
Arlene Foster said “This report clearly shows that noise pollution is a serious issue for many people. We are all guilty of making noise but we must remember that when we make too much noise it can cause severe distress to those affected by it.
“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”.
District councils have the main responsibility for investigating and dealing with most types of complaint about noise nuisance from the general public. The statistics show that for 2006/07, there were 11,923 noise complaints made to councils. This represents an overall increase of 5% in last year and a staggering 42% in the last four years. Almost half of the complaints were received by Belfast City Council. When adjusted for population size, significant numbers of complaints were also received by Carrickfergus and Coleraine Borough Councils. The lowest levels of noise complaint were reported by Castlereagh, Fermanagh and Limavady Councils.
The vast majority of complaints made to district councils (85%) were in relation to noise from domestic premises, such as loud music and barking dogs. 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.
Notes to Editors:
- Additional copies of the report can be obtained from DOE, Planning and Environmental Policy Group, 20-24 Donegall Street, Belfast BT1 2GP and is available on the DOENI website
. - Complaints about noise will also be made to other public bodies such as the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
- For further media information, contact DOE Press Office, Tel: 028 9054 0003 and Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
