Oral answer by Ministry of National Development on the review of recommendations by Community Advisory Panel on Neighbourhood Noise

May 9, 2023

Question No: 4545

Question by: Mr Louis Chua Kheng Wee

To ask the Minister for National Development when does the Government expect to conclude its review of the Community Advisory Panel on Neighbourhood Noise’s recommendation for a quantitative noise threshold and introduce legislation to respond and enforce against unacceptable neighbourhood noise levels.

Answer:

          The Municipal Services Office is following up on the key recommendations submitted by the Community Advisory Panel on Neighbourhood Noise.  At present, we are focusing on consulting relevant community stakeholders on the feasibility of extending the quiet hours as recommended by the Panel.  We are also working with MCCY and MinLaw to strengthen the inter-agency Community Dispute Management Framework, which includes preparations for the pilot unit of dedicated personnel to address serious cases of neighbour noise disputes.   

2.       The review on whether to establish a residential noise threshold has begun.  We plan to work with academia on a technical study and draw on references from thresholds practiced in other jurisdictions before commencing wider consultations with relevant agencies and experts.  We expect to be able to conclude the review before end 2024.