A contractor for the three-runway system project (3RS project), Langfang Huayuan Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Company Limited, violated the requirements of the construction noise permit (CNP) by conducting drilling work at night. It was fined $90,000 by Fanling Magistrates' Courts today (May 21) for contravening the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO).
An Environmental Protection Department spokesman said that the department received a complaint in December 2016 that work at the construction site of the 3RS project at Sheung Sha Chau Island, Tuen Mun, was conducted at night and caused noise nuisance. Upon investigation, EPD staff confirmed that the contractor used powered mechanical equipment to conduct drilling work and generated noise during restricted hours (between 7pm and 7am the next day) on six nights in December 2016, thus violating the CNP requirements. The EPD subsequently initiated prosecution against the contractor involved after evidence gathering.
According to the NCO, anyone who violates the CNP requirements and uses powered mechanical equipment for construction works during restricted hours commits an offence. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000. A maximum fine of $200,000 may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.
The EPD has followed up with the project supervisory staff of the Airport Authority Hong Kong and the contractor to ensure that the contractor will properly arrange its works and strictly comply with all CNP requirements.
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