As a resident of Krugersdorp North, I am appalled at the lack of neighbourliness and concern shown by certain individuals to their fellow residents in the context of noise pollution.
Residents have a right to peace and quiet, yet the by-laws that provide authority to council officials to deal with residents who play loud music above the allowable decibel rating and at unreasonable hours are unknown to most residents.
In the last few months I have dealt with a few such instances and I must report that the officials of the council are ready, willing and able to deal with such complaints and take the necessary action to shut down those who have no respect for the surrounding residents.
Playing loud music from shop fronts or from arbitrary spaces in city centres simply is not allowed, if the by-laws prohibit such activity. Then there are the numerous taverns, many of whom operate illegally, which allow the noise disturbance from their establishments to spill over into surrounding areas.
If you are confronted by such an issue, please feel free to call me and I will take the matter up on your behalf. Alternatively, you can call the environmental health official who deals with noise in Mogale City on 011 411 5235. These officials collaborate with Public Safety and SAPS if the need arises.
There will be music festivals at Coronation Park during the Christmas period to which strict rules have been applied in terms of noise disturbances. It is a time of joy and festivity in which we all would like to participate, but this should not be at the expense of residents who do not want to be blasted out of their homes by loud music.
