A LOCAL authority is set to probe noise complaints against a wood panel factory on the outskirts of Wrexham county borough.
A number of people living near the Kronospan factory in Chirk have expressed frustration over loud noises which they say have been coming from the facility in the last few months, particularly at night.
Wrexham Council is now looking into the issue and has asked residents to help by downloading an app which allows them to submit sound recordings directly to public protection officers.
The company, which employs more than 600 people at the plant, said it had taken steps to address the problem.
However, a community leader said he recently recorded a noise reading of around 90 decibels from the factory.
Cllr Terry Evans, who represents Chirk south, said: “During the day it seems perfect, but as soon as dusk comes something happens and the noise starts.
Kronospan in Chirk
“It goes on all night then until about 20 to seven in the morning and it’s as if they press a switch and it stops.
“I have had loads of complaints and I’ve sent e-mails to the council on a regular basis.
“People are even recording it and you can hear it’s like a droning noise, but I don’t know what it is.”
In one recording posted on Facebook by Chirk resident Nick Williams, a loud noise can be heard near the factory at 8.45pm at night.
In the video, Mr Williams branded the situation as ‘an absolute disgrace’.
A Wrexham Council spokeswoman confirmed the authority was looking into the complaints.
She said: “We are currently investigating a noise complaint of an industrial nature in Chirk.
“In addition to officers investigating the noise complaint, residents can now assist officers by submitting noise recordings using the Noise App (available on Android and iPhones).
“We would also encourage residents to contact operators directly in relation to the noise problem as this may enable the operator to resolve the complaint in a timely manner without the need for the council to intervene in the matter.”
A Kronospan spokesman said: “Kronospan is aware of noise complaints and has taken steps to address them.
“There is a piece of mobile plant which is being used intermittently during the day. “
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