Metro tackles monitoring of noise levels

and this is a proud record that we were able to maintain this festive season.

“Now one can imagine how difficult is to enforce these and there were going to be teething issues, but we are generally pleased with the way in which we were able to handle it, and we do feel that there is definitely room for improvement, especially if we start the process earlier than we did,” he said.

“The other important part of the bylaw is that the event organisers were able to conform and adhere to the stipulations and there were a number of these. One involved advertising the event and having a clear contactable reference in case of complaints, the second was having a sound engineer to monitor and act as and when needed on the issue of noise.

“The last was the time in which events must end, and granting an exemption in case of events that apply to exceed a particular time.”

While most events took place at the Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium, the London Roots annual party, which took place at Police Park, also came under fire from residents for its noise levels and end time.

Honey Vani, who lives in Cambridge, said: “It felt like it was in our lounge. We could hear everything. We don’t have a problem with the events but it’s really not nice because it becomes difficult to sleep.”

Chanda Burton said: “We live close to Police Park and it was terrible. There was a lot of loud music and shouting, and it went on until after 5am.”

However, some residents defended the festivals.

Serame Damane said he went to several events, and felt the quality was compromised because of the sound bylaws.

“I just wish those complaining would let us be for those few days in December.”

Sonke Patso agreed: “I was happy that everyone was enjoying themselves. These events come once a year for East London and they put us on the map.”

Togan Smith said: “These events are massive for East London’s economy and if people really don’t like the noise then go away for the night and visit a friend.”

Ngwenya called for cooperation, tolerance and the respect of constitutional rights by residents during events. — nonsindisoq@