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Hong Kong Tramways convicted for illegally carrying out work at night and causing noise nuisance
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     ​Hong Kong Tramways Limited, which conducted tram track renewal work at night and generated noise nuisance to nearby residents, was fined $15,000 by Eastern Magistrates' Courts today (March 22) for contravening the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO).
      
     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) received a public complaint in late May last year that tram track renewal work was being carried out at late night at the Kennedy Town tram terminus, causing noise nuisance. Upon investigation, the EPD found that the renewal work involved handling of rubble during the small hours, and thus violated the requirements of its construction noise permit (CNP). The department subsequently initiated prosecution against Hong Kong Tramways Limited for violating the NCO.
      
     According to the NCO, anyone who uses powered mechanical equipment for construction works or carries out prescribed construction works (such as handling of rubble or hammering) in a designated area during restricted hours (between 7pm and 7am on weekdays or at any time on a public holiday) commits an offence. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000. A maximum fine of $200,000 may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.
      
     The NCO aims to protect the public from disturbance of rest and to minimise noise nuisance. The EPD spokesman stressed that construction contractors should schedule works for the daytime and non-general holidays as far as possible. If any part of the construction work has to be conducted during restricted hours, the contractor has to obtain prior approval from the EPD. The construction works shall commence only when the CNP has been granted upon completion of assessment to support compliance with regulatory requirements. Contractors must also implement noise mitigation measures, including the erection of enclosures and noise barriers at the sites, to minimise the impact of noise on nearby residents.
 
Ends/Thursday, March 22, 2018
Issued at HKT 19:32
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