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The local authority monitors construction activities to minimise pollution caused by noise, dust and other nuisances.
The Control of Pollution Act 1974 allows the council to set the times during which work may be carried out and the methods of work to be used.
These requirements can extend to the following work:
a) The erection, construction, alteration, repair or maintenance of buildings, structures or roads.
b) Breaking up, opening or boring under any road or adjacent land in connection with the construction, inspection, maintenance or removal of works.
c) Demolition or dredging works.
d) Any work of engineering construction (whether of not already comprised in paragraphs a, b, or c above).
The council will take action against any person contravening the requirements of a notice served upon them or, where a serious nuisance occurs, to take proceedings in the High Court for an injunction.
The requirements
Hours of working - the permitted hours for noisy work are:
Monday to Friday: 8.00am to 6.00pm
Saturday 8.00am to 1.00pm
Sundays and Bank Holidays: No Working
These times apply to work, which is audible at the site boundary.
In exceptional circumstances (for example, in the case of police traffic restrictions or in an emergency) work outside these hours may be unavoidable. In such cases the person responsible should let us know as far in advance as possible. You are also advised to notify surrounding residents of works of this type.
The permitted times of working may be reduced in the case of particularly noisy operations.
Methods of work
In all cases, the best practicable means of minimising noise must be used and guidance is given in British Standard BS 5228: Parts 1, and 2 (1984) and Part 4 (1986) entitled 'Noise control on construction and open sites'.
The following examples are applicable:
a) For any particular job, the quietest plant and/or machinery should be used. Where appropriate it must be constructed to meet the requirements of EEC directives.
b) All equipment should be maintained in good mechanical order and fitted with the appropriate silencers, mufflers or acoustic covers.
c) Stationary noise sources should be sited as far as possible from noise sensitive development, and where necessary, acoustic barriers should be used to shield them. Such barriers may be proprietary types, or may consist of site materials such as bricks or earth mounds.
d) Any piling should be carried out by the method causing the minimum of noise and vibration; sheet steel piling whether permanent or temporary should be driven by vibratory jacking or boxsilenced percussion systems or a combination of these methods subject to the requirements of the district surveyor.
e) The movement of vehicles to and from the site must be controlled and should not take place outside the permitted hours unless with prior approval; employees should be supervised to ensure compliance with the noise control measures adopted.
Eligibility
None.
Required Customer Information
None
Service Level Agreement and Turnaround
First response within 24 hours
Update or Full response within 10 Working days
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