Even the most peaceful of neighbourhoods can be spoiled by extreme and unexpected noise pollution from unruly neighbours. According to a new study, one region in England experienced the highest amount of noise complaints from neighbours about those living in the nearby area over the last quarter.
Clear Amber property experts analysed noise complaints data across England to reveal the neighbourhoods that most complain about noise disruptions. In their report, the experts say they were “surprised” by the results.
While you might think a bustling urban metropolis such as London or Manchester might be the noisiest hotspots in the country, based on the data analysed, it was revealed that the predominantly coastal region of East Sussex was the region with the most noise complaints from neighbours.
“East Sussex has the noisiest neighbours in the UK, recording the highest number of noise complaints at 7.7 complaints per 1,000 people despite its lower population of 823,258 people,” said the report.
“East Sussex experiences numerous noise nuisances. The county’s popular tourist cities, such as Brighton, Rye, and Hastings, likely contribute to the high number of complaints from residents.”
West Sussex and Warwickshire tied for second place, each with 7.0 complaints per 1,000 people. West Sussex, known for its country estates and beautiful beaches, receives noise complaints from across the county. Warwickshire has one of the lowest populations, with data from 2021 showing this figure sits at 599,153 people, but still recorded the second-highest rate of complaints.
However, over the course of the last three years, Buckinghamshire was found to have experienced the highest increase in noise complaints in the UK, with a 174 percent rise over the past three years.
In contrast, Worcestershire saw the most significant decrease, with noise complaints more than halving by 53 percent during the same period.
In the UK, councils can investigate complaints of statutory nuisance to tackle noise produced at any time of day or night. They may also issue warning notices in response to complaints about noise above permitted levels from 11pm to 7am. These warning notices can be used by councils for noise that’s not a statutory nuisance
