Newark and Sherwood District Council to address noise complaints and tenant disputes with introduction of Good Neighbourhood Management Policy

A council is planning to tackle neighbourly disputes and noise complaints through early intervention and the launch of a new policy.

Working with their tenants, Newark and Sherwood District Council has announced its new Good Neighbourhood Management Policy which aims to enhance the quality of life for all residents by promoting harmonious living and addressing noise complaints in a fair and sensitive manner.

Last year, 56% of anti-social behaviour complaints reported to the council related to noise, which aren’t always classed as anti-social behaviour.

Initial feedback from tenants highlighted the need for ways to resolve conflicts and a more transparent definition of what does constitute anti-social behaviour.

Revisions to the policy have been made to address feedback and incorporate suggestions.

This includes feedback pointing out the importance of considering individual support needs, and as such, the policy will now explicitly take into account the wellbeing of all parties involved in any dispute.

The Regulator for Social Housing mandates all social housing providers to publish a policy to enhance neighbourhoods with a focus on noise complaints and the new policy will provide a framework for handling these complaints.

The district council is adopting an early intervention approach that recognises tenant feedback, better transparency and mediation.

Portfolio holder for housing, Lee Brazier, said: “Following feedback from our tenants, and good practice highlighted by the Housing Ombudsman, we recognised that we needed to take a proactive stance regarding complaints around noise.

“This policy makes it clear how tenants can report noise complaints, what is acceptable and what is not and what we can do to support.

“This has been another successful piece of work delivered alongside involved tenants to shape a policy that works for them.

“A key part to improving the lives of our tenants is to listen to their feedback, and we hope this policy reflects their feelings.”

Now that it has been approved, the policy framework for handling complaints will now be published in an easy-read version with graphics, and will be made available on the council website and social media platforms.

It is hoped that this will ensure wider accessibility and understanding among residents.