Hundreds of noisy neighbour disputes in South Somerset

ENVIRONMENTAL protection officers at South Somerset District Council had to deal with hundreds of cases of “noisy neighbour” disputes over the last 12 months.

During 2012-13 the team at South Somerset District Council investigated over 600 complaints of nuisance – with more than 300 of these complaints being about noisy neighbours.

These complaints included loud music, barking dogs and even noise from a hot tub pump.

The team are very successful in managing to resolve the majority of complaints through discussion and without the need to use formal action. In a few cases however, the team have had to take a tough stance to stop the noise.

A council spokesman said: “Last year the team seized noise making equipment from one individual who failed to comply with legal notices despite numerous warnings.

“Even that did not prevent the loud music being played and the individual was successfully prosecuted for the nuisance that had been caused to the neighbour.

“The team were recently asked to participate in a television programme highlighting the impact of anti-social behaviour, including noise nuisance. The filming focussed on an on-going case where the person has ignored warnings from the team, resulting in legal notices.

“The police and landlord are involved in working together to deal with this problem neighbour.”

Studies have shown that suffering nuisance can have a significant impact on physical and mental health and well-being.

PHOTO: South Somerset District Council environmental health spokesman, Cllr Peter Seib, said: "We will use the law if needed."

Environmental protection officers try to encourage neighbours to resolve issues through amicable discussion in the interests of restoring longer term neighbour relations, but some people seem to have no regard for the people around them. In these cases the Environmental Protection team can step in.

The council's environmental health spokesman, Cllr Peter Seib, said: "Like the police, we would rather work with neighbours to resolve disputes and to encourage respect. It’s a lasting answer. Using the Law is a lengthy and expensive route but not one we’re frightened to use."

Any complaints should be reported to the Environmental Protection team on 01935 462462, or by e-mail to pollution.control@southsomerset.gov.uk .

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