Bristol University students face £100 noisy party fine

Fines will only be imposed after an investigation by the university

Students at the University of Bristol who keep their neighbours awake with noise now face a £100 fine.

City residents have complained of parties in shared houses affecting whole streets due to the volume.

Under the university's scheme, each student in a property could be fined if wrongdoing was uncovered.

Repeat offenders face fines of up to £250, and a charge of £50 to attend anti-social behaviour impact awareness sessions.

Students sign a contract agreeing to adhere to a code of conduct when they enrol, including penalties for "breaches of local rules and regulations".

First-year economics student Ben, who did not wish to give his surname, described the fines as "a bit steep and a strong deterrent".

He said: "You can understand the locals perspectives and I would hate the noise, but if you are living in a student area like Redland or Cotham you should expect it."

First-year biochemistry student Luca Colby added: "If you are planning a party you should warn your neighbours first, but keeping them up all night with noise isn't on."

'Shouting in the street'

Students get welcome packs on community living, including how to be considerate neighbours.

The university holds campaigns aimed at first and second-year students to help them integrate as they move into private rented accommodation.

Money raised from fines goes back into a community fund for activities which encourage students to positively engage with their neighbours.

First-year biochemistry student Luca Colby said you should warn neighbours if you're planning a party

One such neighbour is Andrew Waller whose family lives in Redland, an area close to the university.

He has started a website documenting complaints about noisy students in the area because he says "residents feel frustrated at how the noise issue has developed over recent years".

Mr Waller said parties which go on into the early hours are often so loud "nobody in that street can sleep".

He claims groups of students walk around the district "making a great deal of noise shouting from one end of the street to the other".

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