Officials leading a flagship project under construction in the grounds of Perth College UHI have been warned the council could take action over noise complaints from near neighbours.
The year-long build of the £6 million Academy of Sport and Wellbeing began in August but locals say they have been “plagued” by excessive noise from the site.
They complained to the council about the impact of early morning and late night working and local residents say the difficulties have driven a wedge between them and the college.
“All they have achieved is the loss of any goodwill which may have existed with us, the local residents,” said a spokesperson for the objectors.
The council said that they were willing to take action if matters aren’t resolved.
“We are aware of concerns being raised regarding construction noise from this project and officers from the environment service have already undertaken noise monitoring and responded to affected complainants,” said the council spokesperson.
“We have contacted the contractors and the college about the issue and requested action to reduce noise to the surrounding local community.
“If this is not addressed, the council has powers to issue a notice to restrict noise levels from construction works at certain times. There have been no noise complaints logged with the service regarding this issue since mid-March.”
In relation to suggestions that work began without an approved building warrant in place was “inaccurate” maintained the council.
“The council’s building standards team has inspected the site regularly and work is progressing in line with approvals given,” they said.
The academy will provide a multi-purpose sports hall with bleacher seating for 430 people, fitness studio, new hair and beauty facilities and increased space for teaching and learning.
It will also house a brand new competition standard level 1 climbing chamber – the only one of its kind in the region, and suitable for training the trainers to supervise smaller climbing walls.
The college have said in the past that the academy will be a “tremendous asset” to the campus and the city of Perth.
They declined to get involved in the row over noise responding: “Perth College UHI’s Academy of Sport and Wellbeing is planned to be an inspirational setting, encouraging wellness, fitness, health for our students, staff and also the wider community, providing benefits for all.”
Dixon Contractors who are carrying out the construction didn’t respond to an approach by The Courier about the issue.
