Blockfest noise complaints hit record 67

Noise complaints about Blockfest, a music festival in Tampere, reached 67 by Monday afternoon after the event weekend, Yle reports. More complaints may still be filed, according to Sari Sassi, a senior environmental inspector for the City of Tampere.

The number has already surpassed last year’s record of 60 complaints, marking a new record for the second consecutive year. Blockfest attracted 70,000 visitors this year.

Some of the complaints did not include information about where the disturbance was experienced. Among those with location details, 45 came from Tampere, 12 from Pirkkala and four from Nokia.

In Tampere, 15 complaints came from the Ratina and Nalkala districts. Complaints were also filed from Leinola, Lentävänniemi and Reuharinniemi, the locations furthest from the festival grounds among those listed.

In Pirkkala, complaints came from Pere, Villilä, Loukonlahti, Naistenmatka, Heikkilä and Kurikka.

The city’s environmental supervision department said the complaints particularly concerned low frequency bass carrying into residential surroundings. Residents reported that prolonged bass vibrations and resonance in structures could be heard inside homes even with windows closed, making it difficult to sleep or spend time at home.

Some complainants also reported physical symptoms, including stress, heart palpitations and nausea.