Council seizes property to stop noise nuisance

Stereo equipment seized at Century Gardens.

A Rochdale woman’s TV, stereo and speakers were all seized by environmental health officers from Rochdale Council following persistent complaints of noise nuisance.

Rochdale Magistrates issued a warrant last Tuesday (3 March) for the removal of any noise making equipment from Amanda Golding’s home in Century Gardens in Rochdale.

Environmental health officers visited the house on Wednesday 4 March and stripped it of its entertainment systems, including a Sharp 50” plasma television, leaving Ms Golding with a removal bill in the sum of £397.27 to be paid if she wants the items back. Any further breaches could lead to further seizures if new equipment is bought or even prosecution.

Andy Glover, Public Protection Manager at Rochdale Council said: “Noise nuisance is a serious annoyance that can leave residents feeling miserable. It is unacceptable for such disruption to people’s lives to continue which is why the Council takes persistent complaints very seriously. Where we can, we will take action against inconsiderate perpetrators and bring relief to victims.”

Ms Golding received an abatement notice back in 2006 because the council had received complaints about loud music. Despite efforts to resolve the problem the nuisance continued resulting in the council applying for a warrant from Rochdale Magistrates.

The equipment will be kept in storage for 28 days and Ms Golding will have to apply for it back by writing to the council. 

This is the sixth time in two years that environmental health officers at Rochdale Council have had to seize property because of noise nuisance.

Ted Flynn, Cabinet Member for Community Safety said: “I fully support the council using its power to improve the quality of life for local residents who are suffering noisy neighbours. Let this be a lesson to others who think that being inconsiderate has no consequences.”