Construction & Demolition Site Pollution

This information is intended for contractors, developers, architects, utilities or anyone else undertaking work in the borough.

It is advised that you inform and consult local residents before you begin any work, and let them know the person on site who will be able to deal with any queries.

Noise Control

We can give notice to set the times when work can be carried out and the methods of work which can be used. This is due to the Control of Pollution Act. We will take action against any person who breaks this notice. This notice can be served for:

The erection, construction, alteration, repair or maintenance of buildings, structures or roads.
Breaking up, opening or boring under any road or adjacent land in connection with the construction, inspection, maintenance or removal of works.
Demolition or dredging works.
Any work of engineering construction (whether of not already comprised in the points above).

The following examples can be used to help minimise noise:

For any particular job, the quietest plant and/or machinery should be used.
Where appropriate it must be constructed to meet the requirements of EEC Directives.
All equipment should be maintained in good mechanical order and fitted with the appropriate silencers, mufflers or acoustic covers.
Stationary noise sources should be sited as far as possible from noise sensitive development, and where necessary acoustic barriers should be used to shield them; such barriers may be proprietary tyes, or may consist of site materials such as bricks or earth mounds.
Any piling should be carried out by the method causing the minimum of noise and vibration; sheet steel piling whether permanent or temporary should be driven by vibratory jacking or boxsilenced percussion systems or a combination of these methods subject to the requirements of the District Surveyor.
The movement of vehicles to and from the site must be controlled and should not take place outside the permitted hours unless with prior approval; employees should be supervised to ensure compliance with the noise control measures adopted.

Air Pollution Control

We can impose requirements to prevent or reduce nuisance from dust and smoke due to the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Dust should be controlled at the source by a continuous fine water spray.
The sprinkler system should be capable of reaching all parts of the site. To ensure this can be done, an adequate water supply must be provided with a means of disposal of waste water.
The perimeter of the site should be screened to a sufficient height to prevent the spread of dust. Where this is not practicable, screening should be provided close to the source of the dust. Lightweight small mesh nylon sheeting is recommended.