COVID-19 Update: Environmental Protection

Nuisance Complaints:

Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions we are unable to undertake any visits that are likely to entail contact with members of the public, including visits to install noise monitoring equipment and to witness incidents of nuisance.  This means that we are unlikely to be able to undertake a detailed investigation into your complaint or to visit your property to witness the problem until the current government restriction relating to non-essential travel and social distancing are lifted.

It is not always going to be possible for us to contact the alleged source address as we have very limited access to printing and postage facilities. Names and email addresses of the alleged source are frequently not known by the person being affected by the problem.

In the meantime, please keep a diary of the times when the noise/smoke/odour/light/nuisance occurs and how it affects you and your household.

These are difficult times and neighbours are having to spend more time confined to their homes than they normally would.  This can mean that people are affected by things that they wouldn't normally be bothered by.  It's difficult to talk to neighbours and maintain social distancing, but if it is possible to do so safely and without breaking the restrictions, please talk to your neighbour as they may not be aware that their activities are affecting you.  We ask residents, please be both tolerant and considerate to their neighbours where possible while the restrictions are in place.

Bonfires:

We are noting an increase in residents contacting us about domestic bonfires. Smoke and odour from bonfires can stop people enjoying their homes and gardens and can adversely affect people's health.

If you are thinking about having a bonfire, please consider the following:

1. Only burn dry material
2. Never burn rubber, plastic or paint. Don't be tempted to use petrol or other inflammable liquids to start a bonfire.
3. Inform neighbours that you are planning to have a bonfire
4. Take account of wind direction to prevent smoke blowing into neighbours gardens or across roads.
5. Avoid burning during periods when neighbours may be spending time in their gardens.
6. Supervise the bonfire at all times and contact the Fire and Rescue Service if there is a risk to the safety of people or buildings
7. Site your bonfire away from fences, hedges or buildings.

It's difficult to talk to neighbours and maintain social distancing, but if it is possible to do so safely and without breaking the restrictions, please talk to your neighbour as they may not be aware that their activities are affecting you and refer them to the above, information. 

These are difficult times and neighbours are having to spend more time confined to their homes and gardens than usual.  We ask that residents, please, be both tolerant and considerate to their neighbours where possible while the restrictions are in place.

Stray Dogs:

If you find a stray dog, please contact the Dog Warden, on 01362 858500 to discuss collection arrangements.