A new report from the Department of Environment (DoE) has revealed that noise complaints have increased by 13% over the last year. The report provides information on the number and type of noise complaints received by all 26 district councils, who are responsible for investigating and dealing with most types of complaints about noise nuisance from the general public, for the period 2005/6. The statistics for this period show that there were 11,337 noise complaints made, half of which were received by Belfast City Council. Castlereagh, Dungannon and South Tyrone, Fermanagh and Magherafelt Councils had the lowest levels of complaints. The highest levels of enforcement were reported by Coleraine and Belfast Councils.
Of the complaints made, 85% related to noise from domestic premises, such as barking dogs and loud music. Commercial premises and leisure facilities accounted for 6% and only 2% related to noise from industrial activities. Environment Minister David Caines said, "This clearly shows how noise pollution is a serious issue for many people. Most noise complaints involve noise between neighbours and can be prevented by greater co-operation. Where they behave unreasonably and cause noise nuisance, action can be taken by district councils."
