Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ghent gets many noise complaints, over 25% from bars, restaurants, and events. Complaints about self-employed people (4 in 2023, 10 in 2024) are rising. Filip Watteeuw, Groen, supports stricter rules.
As VRT News reported, Ghent gets many noise complaints every year. Over a quarter of these complaints are about noise from events and places to eat and drink. This type of complaint is increasing, as people are worried about noise from bars, restaurants, and festivals.
Construction sites are also a big source of noise, and these are frequent in a city that’s always growing. Businesses and factories also add to the noise, and they cause a steady level of complaints from the nearby neighbourhoods. These are the main causes of noise problems in Ghent, and the city is paying attention to finding solutions.
Is noise from ACs and self-employed workspaces rising in Ghent?
According to officials, even though there aren’t many of these complaints, going from 4 in 2023 to 10 this year, they’re important. Almost all of these complaints are about noise from things like air conditioners and fans. These machines are often used by small businesses or home offices run by self-employed people. They make noise that can bother people in areas where people live.
In Ghent, businesses must report technical equipment that uses 5 kilowatts or more. This helps the city keep track of noise. The city doesn’t plan to change this rule yet. However, Ghent knows that noise from these machines, like air conditioners, is bothering people more. Filip Watteeuw from the Groen party says the city is paying attention and will include this in the new noise plan.
Ghent is preparing for longer, hotter summers because of global warming. Filip mentioned that this means more people will need things like air conditioners and refrigerators. The city is worried that this will increase noise pollution. To deal with this, Ghent might add stricter rules when you get permission to install these systems.
They could require better soundproofing to keep noise inside buildings. They might also use techniques to reduce vibrations. They mentioned that the goal is to make sure people can use cooling systems while still keeping the city peaceful.
“The city will also consult with the hospitality sector and the self-employed associations to discuss this problem and look for solutions. We will also raise awareness and provide information via the energy plant,”
Watteeuw concludes.
