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Complaints relating to noise and vibration (except that caused byaircraft)
may now be dealt with under the Noise Abatement Act, 1960,
which has extended the powers previously conferred on London local
authorities by section 66 of the London County Council (General Powers)
Act, 1937.
For many years, under common law, householders have been able to
take action against a maker of a noise if at least ten householders were
affected. The new Act reduces this number to three.
Section 2 of the Act deals with the operation of loudspeakers on the
highway. With certain exceptions, loudspeakers shall not be used
between the hours of nine in the evening and eight the following morning
for any purpose, and at any time for the purpose of advertising any
entertainment, trade or business.
The exceptions listed relate to loudspeakers used for police, fire brigade
or ambulance purposes, communicating with a vessel, announcements in
connection with a transport undertaking, etc.
The use of musical " chimes " or similar noise to advertise the sale of
" a perishable commodity " (such as ice cream) is restricted to between
noon and seven o'clock in the evening.
Dust Nuisances
London County Council (General Powers) Act, 1960.
Under Section 14 of the London County Council (General Powers)
Act, 1960, the provisions of Section 82 of the Public Health (London)
Act, 1936 (which prescribes nuisances which may be dealt with summarily)
are extended to include "any dust or other airborne particles caused by
any trade business process or manufacture and being a nuisance or injurious
or dangerous to health." It is a defence in any proceedings that
having regard to cost and to local conditions and circumstances, the best
practicable means have been taken for preventing or for counteracting
the effect of such dust or airborne particles. A sanitary authority may
not institute proceedings under the above Act without the consent of the
Minister of Housing and Local Government if proceedings coidd be taken
under the Alkali, etc., Works Regulation Act, 1906.
During the year it was not necessary for any notices to be served under
Section 14 of the above Act.
In Westminster, the London County Council Byelaw, No. 2671,
relating to dust nuisance from the demolition of buildings, is administered
by the City Engineer. During the year notifications concerning this type
of nuisance were forwarded to him on several occasions and the necessary
action was taken by his department.