Wan Chai waterfront performances drew noise complaints
On.cc · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
A previous complaint to the newspaper described loud singing performances by groups of middle-aged people at the Wan Chai waterfront shared space, with noise continuing into the evening and disturbing other visitors. Authorities said 18 noise complaints related to the Wan Chai waterfront were received in the first 10 months of 2024, while the HarbourChill leisure area near Wan Chai Ferry Pier permits public street performances without prior licensing
Key Points
- The newspaper said it received a reader complaint in 2024 about several middle-aged performers gathering at the Wan Chai waterfront shared space for loud song-and-dance performances
- A reporter at the time found about four people performing, and on-site music volume was recorded at as high as 89 decibels
- The complainant said more than 10 singing acts could sometimes appear in the same space, disrupting what had been a quiet waterfront atmosphere
- The Harbour Office said noise complaints at HarbourChill near Wan Chai Ferry Pier were mainly concentrated in November and December 2023, and conditions later improved
- When complaints about noise or soliciting alms are received, on-site security first observes the performers and, if the complaint is confirmed, advises them to stop and explains the relevant law
Why It Matters
The case points to an ongoing tension between open-access waterfront performance spaces and nearby visitors' expectations of a quieter public environment. It also shows that enforcement often begins with security staff warnings, while the Noise Control Ordinance provides for penalties when noise becomes a nuisance during restricted hours or on public holidays