Items seized off neighbours from hell

Noisy neighbours who refused to listen to advice from East Dorset District Council officers have had their audio equipment seized.

The council was awarded a forfeiture order for televisions, hi-fi, video and DVD players taken from noisemakers. This means that the court gives seized items to the council to dispose of.  

In one case, a stereo was seized following complaints that it was being played loudly at 4am.  The occupier of the property was successfully prosecuted for breaching a noise abatement notice.

On another one occasion, officers attended a property on a Sunday afternoon and were confronted by music from a DVD. This was being played at such high volumes, and with all the doors and windows in the house wide open, that the noise was disturbing residents some considerable distance from the property, as well as those much closer. 

Cllr John Little, Lead member for Health and Housing said: “Many households today have powerful TV’s and stereos that, if used inconsiderately, are capable of disturbing neighbours. The council encourages residents to keep their volume down to a reasonable level.  

“If you are intending to host a party, speak with your neighbours and let them know what time the party will finish. If you are intending to use outside areas, move the party inside and shut doors and windows when it reaches a time when neighbours are likely to be going to bed. If you cause a nuisance and ignore the advice of council officers then legal action can, and will, be taken.”  

If you have any problems with noise you should call the council during office hours on 01202 886201. You should be aware that action can only be taken in respect of noise that is considered to be statutory nuisance.