Fed-up Pionierspark calls for crackdown on noisy events

Pionierspark residents have declared war on what they describe as escalating noise pollution in the residential suburb, demanding that the City of Windhoek immediately stop issuing permits for music festivals and other commercial entertainment events at venues operating alongside homes.

In a formal letter seen by Namibian Sun, dated 29 August, concerned residents accused sports clubs and commercial properties of increasingly transforming the residential neighbourhood into entertainment hubs, with amplified music, public announcements and sound testing allegedly continuing from early morning until late at night.

Residents referenced Soulection Music Festival, which took place on 29 August as the latest flashpoint, claiming sound testing and broadcasts began before 09:00 and continued until midnight.

They argue that the disturbances are no longer isolated inconveniences but are affecting families, children, elderly residents and schools in the area. “Pionierspark is a residential neighbourhood with families, young children and the elderly, where this noise pollution is more than just a nuisance,” the letter reads.

Residents are calling for an "immediate ban" on music festivals and commercial events where amplified music is the primary attraction.

They are also asking for an immediate freeze on temporary entertainment licences and sound broadcasting permits for venues situated near residential properties, while demanding proactive monitoring by the Windhoek City Police.

The petition also calls for strict enforcement of audio boundaries, insisting that public-address systems used for sporting announcements or background audio should not be audible beyond venue property boundaries.

Push for tighter controls

Residents claim the alleged disturbances exceed municipal noise limits, citing levels of more than 70 decibels during some events. They further argue that excessive noise affects quality of life, family routines and potentially undermines property values and the learning environment at nearby schools.

The petition cites the City of Windhoek noise control regulations, the Environmental Management Act and zoning provisions as the basis for their demands. However, the residents are not calling for an end to sporting activities or ordinary business operations.

Instead, they want the City to draw a clear line between legitimate sporting and commercial activities and large-scale entertainment events that, in their view, are incompatible with a residential neighbourhood.

They have urged the City’s environmental management unit and Windhoek City Police Commander to take urgent administrative and enforcement action. The petition is also being circulated publicly, with residents calling on members of the community to support their campaign for stricter noise pollution controls.

Anthony Coetzee, a Soulection organiser, told Namibian Sun they complied with all rules and regulations prior to the festival.

“We do not want to comment on the concerns because we did our part. We spoke to the surrounding residents, engaged with the City of Windhoek, and were even issued an approval letter,” he said.

The City of Windhoek had not responded to questions sent by publication.

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