Sutton (Parliament Politics Magazine) – A freedom of Information (FOI) revelation exposes Sutton’s noise crisis, with over 1,200 complaints filed in 2024, raising concerns over residents’ quality of life.
A statutory nuisance is a legal phrase for situations or actions that seriously impair or disturb people’s property, comfort, or health, such as loud noises.
Sutton Council received 1,270 complaints in 2024—just six fewer than in 2023.
Domestic music was the subject of the most frequent complaints, indicating that respondents thought the music performed in their homes was excessively loud.
Sutton Council received 588 complaints about domestic music in total.
There were 623 complaints filed under the category of “domestic music” in 2023—35 more than in 2024.
In 2024, noise in the streets accounted for 147 complaints, construction noise for 170, and business noise for 182—the second most frequent complaint category.
Dog barking was the subject of further complaints (122) and property alarms (45).
With 16 complaints recorded, automobile alarms were the least frequently complained about.
Noise that is deemed a statutory nuisance may be addressed by Sutton Council.
Numerous elements influence this, such as the noise’s kind, level, frequency, duration, and effect on other people.
They can handle inappropriate noise, such as musical instruments, parties, and home and vehicle alarms, and they typically take an increasing approach to noise enforcement.
A fine or the seizure of the device making the noise are two possible outcomes for those who are creating a nuisance.
However, Sutton Council lacks the authority to appropriately handle noise that results from people going about their regular daily lives.
For urgent problems, including noisy parties or malfunctioning alarms, Sutton Council provides an after-hours noise service, which can be contacted by dialling a specific number.
This also implies that they are unable to cope with noises produced by doors banging, washing machines, or people laughing.
How does Sutton Council handle noise complaints from commercial premises?
The Sutton council determines whether the noise is a statutory annoyance after receiving a complaint. This entails figuring out whether the noise has a major impact on the health or wellbeing of people who are impacted.
To record the frequency and intensity of the noise, the council might request that the complaint maintain a noise journal. Additionally, they might go to the location to see the noise directly and, if required, employ calibrated noise recording equipment.
The commercial property in question will be contacted by the council to notify them of the complaint and to discuss possible resolutions. This may entail reaching a compromise or offering suggestions for noise-cancelling strategies.
The council may also take into account whether the noise violates the terms of the licenses for establishments with licenses, including pubs or restaurants.
If a business operates outside of these guidelines, action may be taken.