Bracknell

Bracknell Environmental health officers have investigated more than 800 complaints about noisy neighbours and removed more than 130 abandoned cars this year to ensure the borough is kept a pleasant place for residents and visitors.

Between April 2006 and April 2007, the Bracknell Council removed about 130 abandoned cars from around the borough. Using new powers under the Clean Neighbourhood and Environment Act 2005 the Council was able to fine offenders and recover its costs.

Fixed penalty notices worth £300 and costs worth £50 were charged to Paul Symonds of Hamlet Street, Bracknell; John Paul Guyett of Hazelton Road, Liverpool; and Irene Kavuma of Nutley, Bracknell.

During the same period Bracknell officers have been mediating between residents to resolve problems with noisy neighbours. However, in some cases the Council had no option but to take people to court under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

In two recent cases heard at Maidenhead Magistrates’ Court, Jane and Brian Maimbia of Great Hollands were fined £300 each with costs of £125 and Mathew Lewis of Cunworth Court, Bracknell, was fined £300 with £250 costs for failing to comply with legal notices.

David Steeds, Head of Bracknell Environmental Health and Safety, said: We always prefer to work with residents to resolve problems, rather than being forced into taking people to court.

”However, where the need is proven and we don’t get the co-operation we are seeking we do not hesitate to use the powers available.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: There are some things in life that are just plain unacceptable, anti-social behaviour for example, whether from excessively noisy neighbours or people abandoning cars, things that mar our quality of life.

It is for that reason that the Council works hard to make sure the borough is a clean and quiet place for us to live, visit or work."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council