Noise squad seizes hi-fi in Liskeard
Caradon Council's Environmental Department officers have seized hi-fi equipment in Liskeard after complaints of excessive noise
Escorted by police officers, and with a warrant issued by the local magistrates under the Environmental Protection Act, they entered the bedsit of a male teenager above the Powerhouse shop in Lower Lux Street, Liskeard where they took away a television, record decks and speakers.
Mr Pat Gormley, Environ-mental Officer, catalogued the goods as they were taken by Mr Colin Braine and Mr Ian Goldsmith to be impounded.
The teenager was out at the time of the seizure, but on return found a note pinned to his door advising him of the council's action.
He will be able to apply for the return of his equipment within 28 days, but first he will have to pay all costs, including the issuing of the magistrates' warrant.
Three more cases of prosecution against the same person are still under consideration by the council, and he has already been prosecuted once for noise nuisance resulting in a fine and the award of costs against him.
Mr Gormley said excessive noise of this nature was becoming an increasing problem. 'By this action we have proved that we are prepared to do what we have to do to stop this nuisance' he said.
Environmental Services Manager Mike Bullock said that over the past two years the council had received well over 400 complaints about noise levels, mostly domestic cases. 'The majority of people respond positively when we draw the matter to their attention' he said, 'but unfortunately, in a handful of cases each year the council has to resort to legal action, and in extreme cases such as this one, seize offending equipment'.