Noise Action Week until 25 May 2014

Each year Shropshire Council receive an increase in complaints about noisy neighbours during the summer months.  Last year between April and September we received over 800 noise complaints ranging from loud music to barking dogs.

Noise Action Week is being held this year until Sunday 25 May 2014.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for public protection, said:

“We are encouraging everyone to be aware of the noise they make and to be considerate to their neighbours to minimise the impact on people’s health and well-being.”

Excessive dog barking is one of the most common noise complaints that we receive.  Dogs often bark as a result of boredom and/or loneliness, and the dog may be suffering from both.  If your neighbour’s dog is barking when they are out, they may not even be aware of the problem, and you should contact them in an attempt to resolve the matter informally. This could be done in person, or by writing them a polite note.  Top tips to reduce excessive dog barking include:

• Leave the radio or TV on to give the dog company while its owners are out
• Leave it with a toy – such as a Kong – that can be stuffed with some food to keep it distracted whilst the owners are out
• Surround the dog with familiar items such as its bed, toys, balls etc
• Exercise the dog prior to leaving it so that it is tired
• Have someone visit the dog during the day.

There is useful information on the council’s webpages to help neighbours to resolve issues informally including a template letter which can be downloaded.  For more information on noise, please click here.