We can monitor construction work to make sure that noise, dust and other nuisances are kept to a minimum.

Noise from demolition, construction works, deliveries and the movement of vehicles and other plant both on and off the site may disturb neighbouring residents. Therefore, we expect that any work that can be heard beyond the boundary of the site should only be carried out between the hours of 7am to 7pm on Mondays to Fridays and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays; there should be no noisy works carried out on Sundays or Bank Holidays or Public Holidays. These hours may be altered for particularly noisy operations i.e. piling.

The most recent version of British Standard BS5228 says that "Best practicable means to prevent noise from the site should also be employed" meaning sites should do all they can to keep noise levels down. They should allow for this in their project planning and make sure that all sub-contractors are also aware of these requirements.

If these hours are not kept to or noise is not controlled by the best available means, then we may serve an Enforcement Notice under Section 60 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974, or an Abatement Notice under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. If the notices are not complied with, then there are appropriate penalties.

If a developer can show there is good reason to deviate from the above, they may apply for prior consent under Section 61 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974. For further details regarding control of noise from construction and associated works, please contact the Pollution and Environment Team on telephone no. 01255 686767.