Construction NoiseNoise nuisance
Construction and demolition work can only be carried out within hours specified by law or by permission of the Council. This includes all work undertaken by electricity, gas and water companies as well as our own council departments. The construction industry is aware that all work should be undertaken using the quietest equipment available, although it's not possible to make some work (e.g. drilling) any quieter than it already is.
Bonfires and dust
Bonfires are not permitted at any time on a construction site. Dust must be controlled at the source by a fine water spray, and the sprinkler system should be capable of reaching all parts of the site. An adequate water supply must be provided along with means of wastewater disposal. In some circumstances the dust source should be screened to stop it spreading.
What the law says
Under the Control of Pollution Act 1974, the council can impose requirements as to what times noisy work may be carried out, and the methods of work used.
In Southwark these times are generally
- Monday to Friday - 8am to 6pm
- Saturday - 8am to 1pm
- Sundays and Bank Holidays - No Working
Permission may be granted for work to take place outside these hours, e.g. Police traffic restrictions, special site works (crane erection etc.), emergencies.
How we can help
If you have a particular concern about a construction site you can discuss this with the noise team. You may also want to view the Code of Construction Practice.This code contains the points mentioned above in more detail and has details of other environmental disturbances.
If you are disturbed by noise, dust or bonfire smoke/smell from a construction site, please ring the Council’s 24-hour Noise team at the time it is happening on Tel: 020 7525 2000.
Noise officers will visit as soon as possible to serve a notice if a construction site is operating outside the agreed hours.
Environmental Code of Construction Practice
Southwark Council has pioneered a code of practice targeted at the construction industry. It aims to make construction companies aware of the rules that must be followed and encourages the industry to ensure that as little impact as possible is made on the surrounding environment and community.
This document is available form the Environment and housing publications page.
Contact us
If you want to make a complaint or need more information, contact us using the details below. If the disturbance is going on now, call our 24-hour hotline.
Tel: 020 7525 5777 (24 hours)
Fax: 020 7525 3077
noise@southwark.gov.uk
Noise team
The Chaplin Centre
Thurlow Street
London SE17 2DG
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