Momentum’s call to ban noisy construction works during lunchtime and at weekends highlights the need for a balance between development and residents’ quality of life. In the UK, current regulations restrict noisy construction work to specific hours. Generally, builders are allowed to conduct noisy work between 8 am and 6 pm, Monday to Friday, and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Sundays and bank holidays typically prohibit noisy building activities entirely.
Local councils enforce these regulations, and some areas may have stricter guidelines. For instance, the Royal Borough of Greenwich restricts general construction work to 8 am to 6 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays, with no noisy work allowed on Sundays and bank holidays. Similarly, Wirral Council operates a policy that restricts noisy work to the same hours.
If noisy work is conducted outside these permitted hours, residents can complain to their local council’s environmental health department. The council can issue an abatement notice, requiring the work to stop or reduce noise levels. Failure to comply can result in fines or legal action.
Some councils suggest suitable times for DIY projects, such as 9 am to 7:30 pm on weekdays and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays. However, these are not law, and residents should check with their local council for specific guidelines.
