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41
NOISE ABATEMENT
The prevention and reduction of noise, sometimes defined as "unwanted
sound", is an essential element in the campaign against the pollution of the
environment, for noise, as an unfortunate bi-product is increasing with the
growth of population, industry and road and air traffic. The problems are complex
since although it is possible to define a noise nuisance by specialist
knowledge and the use of instruments, reaction to noise is an individual characteristic
and therefore infinitely variable, whereby, the roar of a sports car
engine may exhilarate some persons and infuriate others.
The Inspectorate are concerned not only with the resolution of current
noise problems but with the prevention of potential noise, and, in this connection,
special attention is given to all planning applications relating to industrial
and commercial premises and the degree of noise which may emanate from
such premises and, where appropriate, safeguards are prescribed to minimise
noise levels and excessive vibration.
Complaints received from the public largely concerned mechanical noise
from factories, demolition and construction work, ventilation and refrigeration
plants and domestic noise, usually amplified music. Of the 159 complaints
received during the year, 99 were resolved by action resulting in the reduction
or abatement of the noise complained of, in 19 cases no action was warranted
and the remainder are still under investigation. The statutory powers contained
in the Noise Abatement Act, 1960 are limited and complaints concerning domestic
noise, such as slamming of house and car doors, must be resolved by persuading
the individuals responsible to have consideration for other residents.
It is understandable that many of the complaints received relate to noise
nuisances which occur at night and a large proportion of the 535 visits made
by Inspectors were during evenings and weekends.
CLEAN AIR ACT, 1956
The Council has implemented the relevant provisions of this Act in
making Smoke Control Orders coveringthe South, West and Northern areas of
the Borough and it is the intention that one Smoke Control Order shall be made
each year. The progress of these Orders is shown below:—