Noise over disturbance of suburban peace
BRYANSTON - Construction work in Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston has again come into the spotlight.
This time because of alleged noise disturbance caused by construction workers and their machines operating at building sites in the road after hours, on weekends and on public holidays.
Following residents’ concerns, Ward 103 councillor Vincent Earp explained, according to the law, there were certain hours construction companies were not allowed to operate. “Unfortunately there are unscrupulous contractors,” he said. “When construction continues after hours, on Sundays or public holidays, this can be a nightmare for residents.”
He said this scenario usually occurred because the construction companies had deadlines they had to meet or else they would pay a penalty. “So they press hard to get everything complete on time,” he said. “This often means commencing work after scheduled working hours.”
City of Johannesburg, Region E Building Control building inspector Abie Coetzee explained according to law, construction was only permitted from 6am until 6pm on weekdays, 6am to 5pm on Saturdays, and not at all on Sundays or public holidays.
“If there is a situation with noise pollution, Building Control issues a formal notice in fitting with national building regulations. If this is then violated, further action is taken.”
Details: Abie Coetzee, abieco@joburg.org.za
