Did you have noisy neighbours during the COVID lockdowns? Reports to the Isle of Wight Council’s Environmental Health department for noise nuisance increased over the height of the pandemic, unsurprisingly, as more people stayed inside.
Figures from the Island’s Community Safety Partnership (CSP) ‘presented an interesting picture’, according to the strategic assessment, with 50 more incidents recorded between 1st April 2020 and 31st March 2021, compared to the previous year.
With restrictions in place that limited the amount of time spent outdoors, a range of noises interrupted the peace — although some particular noise types were less of a problem.
Fewer complaints were received by the council around dogs barking, which may be down to the fact people were at home and not leaving their pets all day, the CSP says.
As many people had spare time on their hands during the lockdowns, and even after the restrictions were lifted, there was an increase in construction and DIY related noise complaints reflecting the increase of home improvements being made.
Again, as more people were indoors, there was an increase in music-related complaints.
Local authorities have statutory powers to deal with nuisances under the Environmental Protection Act. If you have a problem you can find out more about what can be done at www.iow.gov.uk/Business/Health-and-Safety/Environmental-Protection-Pollution/Nuisances.
