Party patrols tackle noisy neighbours

Summer parties and noisy events will be targeted with a month of Party Patrols starting in August. With warmer days, longer evenings and the summer term coming to an end, council officers will have the power issue warnings or confiscate stereo equipment if a party is creating an unreasonable disturbance.

Noise complaints often increase around this time of year. To nip nuisance behaviour in the bud, Party Patrols will be in operation between 6pm and 2am throughout August. They will be checking events to ensure that noise is kept to a reasonable level and working with Brent's licensing team to verify that businesses have the correct licence if they choose to host a party.

Cllr Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, Jobs and Skills, said: "I want every resident to enjoy the summer. Whilst we want people to have fun, disturbing others at unsociable times can be a nightmare for neighbours. I am glad that we continue back Party Patrols across the borough so that residents have the opportunity to celebrate summer and not dread a bad night’s sleep."

Avoid a visit from the Party Patrol with these tips from our noise nuisance team:

• Tell your neighbours in advance of your plans - or better still, invite them.
• Keep noise to a reasonable level at all times. It's a common misconception that you are allowed to play loud music before 11pm - the law actually requires neighbourly and considerate behaviour at all times. It is a good idea to turn music right down after 11pm and to close windows and doors.
• It's difficult to control music noise when you are outside in the open, so avoid speakers in the garden.
• Ask guests to leave quietly after the party - no shouting, revving of car engines, or sounding of car horns.
• Businesses looking to host a party must seek permission from their local authority if they are not already licensed for activities like music and the consumption of alcohol. If you're unsure whether you need a license, please contact the team at business.licence@brent.gov.uk

To report noise nuisance, download the Noise App at: www.thenoiseapp.com

The council’s out-of-hours emergency service has recently changed to meet the increased demand at weekends. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, officers will be on hand to help between 6pm and 2am. If it can't wait, please call 020 8937 1234 and press option 3 for emergencies.