Residents say stadium sound checks too noisy

RESIDENTS say sound checks aimed at solving the noise problem created by concerts at Hong Kong Stadium are themselves too noisy.

The tests were below the night limit of 65 decibels, but still some residents claimed the volume was too high.

One group of residents has sought legal advice on the matter, claiming noise levels are still subject to common law even if they comply with limits set by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD).

One resident, Mak Yau-kay, said: 'It is an actionable nuisance to generate noise affecting the amenities of living enjoyed by the neighbours. There is also the common law offence of public nuisance.' Even at the legal levels used by stadium managers Wembley and the Urban Council during last week's tests, noise disturbed her and neighbouring families.

Ms Mak, whose flat overlooks the arena, said concerts would 'shake and rattle the windows' of her home. She was one of about 50 residents to submit a petition to Wembley last week which called for a halt to testing and future concerts.

Proposed solutions to the noise problems include the repositioning of the stage area, a directional or distributive sound system, and the building of a retractable roof.