Seizure Brings a bit of Peace and Quiet

Televisions, DVD players, a stereo and speakers have been seized by Shepway District Council after music was played so loudly that walks shook and light fittings vibrated in flats in Folkestone.

Neighbours had complained to the council about the din caused when songs by Michael Jackson, George Michael and Neil Diamond blasted out from a flat in Trevarra Court, Bouverie Road West.

After hearing the noise for themselves, council officers served a noise abatement notice on a tenant of one of the flats.

But the order to stop the racket was ignored and the noise continued. So the council secured a warrant from magistrates to enter the flat and, accompanied by Kent Police, seized televisions, a stereo, speakers and DVD players.

Leader of Shepway Council, Cllr Robert Bliss, said everyone had to right to enjoy music in their own homes but also had a responsibility to make sure it did not cause a nuisance to neighbours.

"We are not killjoys but we will take action when people's lives are ruined by unreasonable noise. There are lots of steps we can take to resolve problems but ultimately, if these fail to bring a bit of peace and quiet, we will take enforcement action."

The equipment will be confiscated for 28 days by the council, and returned only if the owner agrees to pay council costs.