South Norfolk: Hingham resident prosecuted for noisy dogs

At Norwich Magistrates' Court Nicola McPhee, of Watton Road, Hingham, received a two-year conditional discharge and was ordered to pay costs of £800 as well as a £22 victim surcharge.

Residents in Hingham have been subjected to prolonged noise nuisance from dogs owned by McPhee since summer 2021.

Council officers investigated the noise and the owner of the dogs was issued with a noise abatement notice, requiring her to stop the noise immediately. The notice was ignored and further evidence was gathered through the use of noise recording equipment and statements taken from affected residents.

South Norfolk’s Portfolio Holder for Clean and Safe Environment, Cllr Graham Minshull, said:

“Nuisance noise, such as barking dogs, can have a detrimental effect on people’s mental wellbeing and we will always investigate complaints of ongoing noise issues that are affecting people’s use and enjoyment of their home and garden. Many noise issues can be resolved with your neighbour by having a polite word and ask that noise levels are reduced, however, in this case, the noise continued even after being served with a notice to stop and this action resulted in prosecution.”

Last year South Norfolk Council received 403 complaints of noise, 133 of which were complaints specifically about dog barking.

South Norfolk Council advises that dog owners can be a good neighbour by making sure that their dog(s) don't bark and annoy neighbours by following these simple steps:

• avoid leaving your dog on its own for long periods of time
• leave a radio or TV on when they are on their own to reduce anxiety
• make sure your dog has plenty of toys to keep them occupied so they don't get bored, and exercise them twice a day
• seek advice on training and help with separation anxiety

If you have concerns over anti-social behaviour, head to our neighbourhood issues webpage for guidance.