A secondary school has been told to remove its heat pumps after residents complained the system is so loud they are unable to open windows or go outside without being disturbed. The Telegraph has the story.
Residents who live near Reepham High School in Norfolk, have said the electrical devices that are used to heat classrooms are a “24-hour noise nuisance”.
The pumps work by absorbing heat from the air, are said to be more efficient than gas boilers and can be powered by renewable resources instead of fossil fuels.
However, residents have said they are creating such noise pollution that they are unable to open their windows or go into their gardens without disturbance.
Mark Bridges, who lives near the school, blamed the local Broadland District Council for allowing them to be installed without the ability to reduce noise pollution.
The pumps were installed last year but planning permission was only sought afterwards.
Residents have also claimed they were assured the pumps would be switched off on bank holidays and during the school holidays, but that they have been left running.
Jerome Mayhew, local Conservative MP, was asked to intervene to resolve the issue.
He said: “Whilst I welcome the school’s efforts to reduce the carbon impact of their heating system, this needs to be done in a way that is considerate to their neighbours and compliant with the planning system.”
The council says it is “working with all parties to get to a position that has enabled matters to move forwards” and has proposed “an alternative source of renewable energy to the school”.
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