Frustrated Bootha AH residents say loud music from the Droogeheuwel Mega City development is disrupting their normally quiet surroundings.

According to several residents, the noise is particularly noticeable on weekends and has disrupted what was once a quiet, semi-rural environment.

One *resident said loud music is often played from Friday afternoons through to Sunday afternoons.

“On numerous occasions, the noise persists throughout the night, significantly disrupting the peace and well-being of residents in the surrounding area,” she said.

Residents claim the noise affects children’s ability to study and sleep, while those working from home say it impacts their productivity. Some have also expressed concerns about the enforcement of noise regulations in the area.

Fellow Bootha AH resident Jannie Meyer said residents are not opposed to the development itself.

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“We are not against the development at all, but there needs to be respect for surrounding communities. There should be some control over how loud things get.”

The Droogeheuwel Mega City Project is a major housing development aimed at addressing accommodation needs in the region through integrated living spaces. However, some neighbouring residents believe better management of social activities is needed as the area expands.

Droogeheuwel resident Oupa Paza disputed the complaints, saying loud music is not played every weekend.

“It doesn’t last the entire night as alleged by the complainants. Residents of the new development were told by the developer not to have any loud music past 02:00, so the music does not carry on until the morning,” said Paza.

West Rand District Municipality environmental health practitioner Rhia Kakubeng confirmed that complaints had been received and said the matter would be investigated.

She encouraged residents experiencing similar issues to contact the municipality on 011 411 5150.

The situation highlights the challenges that can arise as new developments expand alongside established communities.

*This article has been amended since publication. An earlier version stated the name of one of several residents complaining about noise at the Droogeheuwel Mega City development. The individual has since informed the Herald that they wish to remain anonymous entirely, and the article has been updated accordingly. — Ed