Noise complaints across Northern Ireland are on the rise, official government figures show.
Overall complaints rose by 13% – in 2016/17 12,105 complaints were received about excessive noise compared to 10,754 the previous year.
And the biggest source of noise, according to those having their ears bashed, comes from householders themselves. Loud music, televisions, parties and animal noise contributed to 80% of all complaints.
While noise from pubs and clubs was the next biggest complaint made.
“The 13% rise in complaints does not necessarily equate to worsening noise pollution,” the Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs said.
“The increase may be due to individuals becoming more susceptible to noise or more aware of who they should complain to when they experience noise problems.
“Councils have a number of courses of action open to them when dealing with noise complaints. Informal warnings are frequently used but formal options include service of a notice, prosecution and seizure of noise making equipment.
“Education, through the Noise Statistics Report, activities during Noise Action Week and the general work of district councils, is considered the most appropriate way of preventing noise issues.”
Belfast was the council area to receive the highest number of complaints with nearly 7,000. It issued 547 notices.
Noise complaints received by council area:
Belfast: 6,942
Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon: 831
Antrim and Newtownabbey: 578
Newry, Mourne and Down: 576
Derry and Strabane: 554
Causeway Coast and Glens: 519
Ards and North Down: 513
Lisburn and Castlereagh: 468
Mid Ulster: 438
Mid and East Antrim: 388
Fermanagh and Omagh: 298
Belfast Telegraph Digital
Source: Belfast Telegraph.