We step up noise teams

Published: 26 February 2010

• I’D like to reassure residents about the future of Islington’s noise patrols, in response to concerns on this page (Why take cuts axe to already overstretched noise patrols? February 19).
Far from axing our service, we’ve improved it – doubling the number of officers working on Friday and Saturday nights, our busiest time for complaints. A year ago there were two noise patrol officers covering the borough during those peak late-night hours. Now there are four.
We’re also working much more closely with Homes for Islington (HfI) to provide a better service for all residents, whether in private or public housing. For example, information-sharing has been greatly improved so if there are repeat complaints about a single address action can be taken much more quickly.
The driving force for these changes has been a desire to keep on improving the way we deal with noise complaints. As a bonus, our more effective working will bring a saving to the taxpayer. This is, I think, something to celebrate.
We will continue to review the new system to make sure it is serving residents well.
Each year we get 4,500 out-of-hours complaints about noise – every one of those matters to us. Whether it’s noisy neighbours, loud parties, barking dogs or a racket from late-night DIY, our noise patrol is there to help. I have been out with the team overnight and know how hard they work. If you have a complaint about noise, ring 020 7527 3258 during the day or 020 7527 3229 at night. For noise problems during the day HfI tenants should call their area housing office.
CLLR GREG FOXSMITH
Lib Dem executive member for environment