To support our residents, we provide a suite of self-resolution measures. These measures can be used by customers as an initial attempt to self-resolve the issue before our involvement is required. 

The following measures can be extremely effective: 

Dear Neighbour Cards

In some cases, neighbours may be unaware of how their actions affect others in the community. A Dear Neighbour Card is available on this link to download and serves as a helpful tool for self-resolution, informing the individual about the disturbance they are causing.

If you are unable to download or do not have access to a printer, we can deliver some blank cards to you. Just let us know by calling 01908 691691 or email us at ASB@milton-keynes.gov.uk. All we need is your name and address. 

Mediation

Customers should consider a mediation approach to resolve any disputes. This type of approach can be carried out in different ways – for example, by keeping the parties separate, or eventually bringing the parties together. The choice will always be yours to make as to which method you wish to use.

At the end of the mediation process, both parties will be expected to have come to an agreement on what they will do, or not do, to help build better neighbourly relations. This may include an agreement to not play music after a certain time or at a certain volume, or to limit the number of visitors a neighbour has at any one time. The final agreement will be unique to you and your neighbour. Where an agreement cannot be made, or a party has refused to engage in mediation, the council may consider alternative methods to resolve the dispute. 

Referrals can be made to mediation by our case officers. 

Statutory Noise Nuisance 

Some reports of noise may pass the threshold of being a statutory noise nuisance. When this threshold is met, we may refer your report to our Environmental Health team who will then be responsible for carrying out their own investigations and using specific powers under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. 

If you have a Smart phone, you can download the Noise App where you can send your reports of noise directly to the Environmental Health team.