A NOISE hotline for residents to tip off the council about noisy summer hotspots has opened today.

Noise officers from the council’s Environmental Protection team will be monitoring certain areas on Friday and Saturday and investigating noise complaints.

Herefordshire Council receives up to 1,000 noise complaints a year, with a 50 per cent increase over the summer months. Most summer noise complaints are about loud music, parties, barking dogs and loud factory equipment.

Advice includes letting neighbours know in advance about parties, don't start any gardening or DIY jobs early in the morning or late at night and keep music to an acceptable level.

Environmental Health Service Manager Charles Yarnold said: “People have the right to enjoy themselves and some noise is inevitable in work and at home during the summer.

"We are asking that residents and businesses consider the noise they are creating and think about how excessive and prolonged noise could be affecting their neighbour’s quality of life.

“Noise can be a real problem if it keeps someone awake at night when they have work the next day, or if it stops them enjoying life at home during the day. Simple steps such as informing neighbours of a planned party or leaving contact details if a barking dog is going to be unattended can prevent complaints and mean you can be contacted directly if any problems arise.

"Fortunately, most residents and businesses in Herefordshire are considerate of their neighbours, but we will take firm action against the small minority who persist in causing noise nuisance.”

Herefordshire Council’s out of hours noise team will be available on 01432 261761 9pm to 2am every Friday and Saturday evening from 21 June until the end of August, and on August bank holiday Sunday.

More advice at

www.herefordshire.gov.uk/summernoise