Woking
Noise disturbance on Heathside Gardens
I recently met with the principal of the Harven School of English to discuss concerns about noise disturbance made by residents in Heathside Gardens, including complaints about children screaming and shouting while playing during breaktimes, loud conversations and heated arguments amongst older students, and footballs being kicked against neighbours’ fences. While residents accept that there will be a degree of noise from the school, it was felt that the situation has deteriorated in the past few weeks and was spoiling the tranquil and peaceful character of Heathside Gardens during the summer months.
Following my intervention, the school has agreed to move the sports equipment away from the boundaries of the neighbouring properties and to have a word with their older students about the need to be considerate of others during study breaks. I am now told that there has been a marked improvement, and that the principal has been in touch with neighbours to talk through any issues.
I am pleased this matter has been resolved constructively and that the school authorities are making a positive attempt to control the noise. Future issues could best be resolved by direct contact and communication between residents and the school, and a willingness to show tolerance and flexibility on both sides.
Roadworks on Maybury Hill and Oriental Road
Residents on Oriental Road and Maybury Hill will have noticed ongoing roadworks over the last few weeks. This work is being done as part of Surrey County Council’s Project Horizon, a programme of maintenance that will see £100 million spent on essential pothole repairs over the next five years.
Some people have expressed annoyance that the work is being carried out during the night and over the weekend, as this is creating noise disturbance for those living in Maybury Hill. I have also received complaints that the workmen are parking their vehicles inconsiderately in front of people’s driveways in Little Riding.
I have taken these issues up with the County Council and been advised that the reason for allowing the work to carry on through the night was to ensure the minimum amount of congestion on Oriental Road and the least disruption to businesses trading in the Lion Retail Park. While this may create a degree of noise nuisance for residents, it was felt that a balance had to be struck and hence a decision was taken to carry out the work while the roads would be quieter. The fact that the repairs are being done outside normal working hours also means they should hopefully be finished more quickly than might otherwise be the case.
The County Council tells me that, following my representations, they have spoken to their contractors and been given assurances that they will no longer park their vehicles on Little Riding. However, if residents have any further complaints then please do get in touch and I will be happy to raise them with the relevant authorities.