Spain’s tourist hotspot Valencia is to ban any loud noise at night in new rules announced by council chiefs.
Officials in the city have sanctioned new regulations banning any “screaming and expressions using a loud voice” between 10 pm and 8 am.
And “musical performances, loud radio and television” and even “uncontrollable barking” by dogs are also included.
The move has raised eyebrows as the city with its tree-lined promenade along miles of golden sand beaches has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and nightclubs that stay open well past midnight.
It is widely reported as having one of the liveliest party scenes in Spain, with numerous festivals taking part each month throughout the year.
The new ban not only covers noise in the street, but also noises coming from inside people’s homes, reports local media.
And on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, it will not be lifted until 9.30am.
The new rulings even affect the hourly ringing of bells at the hundreds of churches across the region except at the Miguelete Tower of Valencia Cathedral.
Officials believe the new rules – which came into effect on 23rd February – will improve the lives of locals, even if they drive away holidaymakers.
They come after Town Hall officials asked locals to come up with a list of things that annoy them the most about living there.
City councillor Giuseppe Grezz said his colleagues cooperated with citizens but also the local tourism industry businesses, such as hotels, in creating the bill.
He explained: “Many technical aspects and difficulties had to be addressed in order to handle the noise in our city better.”
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Story By: Thomas Hochwarter, Sub-Editor: Marija Stojkoska, Agency: Newsflash
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