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62
Powers to deal with noise nuisance are contained in the Public Health
(London) Act, 1936, the London County Council (General Powers) Act,
1937, the Noise Abatement Act, 1960, and byelaws relating to Good
Rule and Government. Previously some of these powers had been
delegated by the Council to the Public Health Committee and some to
the General Purposes Committee.
During 1961 it was agreed that, to facilitate investigation and enforcement
of remedies, and to simplify administration, all the Council's powers
relating to the abatement of noise should be delegated to the Public
Health Committee.
In a built-up area, large-scale demolition and building operations,
such as those being undertaken at several sites in Westminster, must
inevitably result in noise and annoyance being caused to residents of
neighbouring dwellings, offices and shops. Although it was not necessary
for statutory action to be taken during 1961 in regard to these matters,
there were several occasions on which strong warnings had to be given
to contractors, reminding them of their duty to carry out their operations
with the minimum amount of noise and annoyance consistent with their
activities.
One notice was served during 1961 under the Noise Abatement Act,
1960, in respect of noise and vibration caused by machinery at a bakery
in Soho.
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 could 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.