Noisy Slough resident prosecuted for harassing neighbours

A Slough man who repeatedly played loud music, causing distress to his neighbours, has been prosecuted.

Harpreet Bal, of Ridgebank, came to the council’s attention in July 2023 for playing loud amplified music at all hours most days and causing a nuisance to the residents in his block of flats or nearby.

He was prosecuted at Reading Magistrates on February 11 for eight noise abatement notice breaches, harassment against a fellow tenant and a communication offence against a council officer.

Bal did not turn up for sentencing on March 25, so a warrant was issued by a judge. Bal was then arrested on April 4 and appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on the same day.

For the charge of harassment, the court sentenced him to 12 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, and gave him a 20-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement.

He was also given a restraining order and must not play loud music, bang on ceilings or walls, or play the television loudly.

A deprivation order for equipment previously seized by the council was also issued.

This includes two soundbars, one subwoofer speaker, a television and a JVC speaker. Bal has 21 days to appeal.

Bal must also pay £1,000 in court costs and a £154 victim surcharge.

Councillor Ishrat Shah, lead member for equalities, public health and public protection, said:

“Cases like this highlight that actions have consequences, and it shows how important it is that residents are respectful and considerate of their neighbours.

“I hope this case acts as a reminder that everyone has the right to live peacefully in their homes and that reports do get taken seriously.”

To learn how to report a noise nuisance to Slough Borough Council, go to: www.slough.gov.uk/environment/noise-complaints