CONSTRUCTION noise remains a concern for many residents and the number of complaints received by the National Environment Agency (NEA) have been increasing.

In 2008, complaints were up from about 9,200 from the previous year. Over 10,400 complaints were received from January to October this year.

In a written answer from Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, he said that the Ministry and NEA are currently reviewing the effectiveness of current regulations for construction noise.

This was in response to Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP), Mr Calvin Cheng, who asked the Ministry on considering prohibiting all construction works near hospitals and residential areas on Sundays and public holidays.

The noise limits allowed on Sundays and public holidays for construction sites near residential premises were tightened and maximum fine for noise violations were increased from $20,000 to $40,000 in 2007.

According to Dr Yaacob, the Ministry is currently taking into account feedback received from the public, as well as views of relevant government agencies and industry stakeholders.

However, he also mentioned that "Singapore is a highly urbanized and compact city with vibrant economic activities" and that "noise nuisances cannot be eradicted completely".

The review on construction noise regulations is expected to be completed early next year and any new measures will be announced.