Earlier this week a committee of MPs in the Brussels Regional Parliament approved new rules the aim of which is to protect night clubs and music venues from complaints about noise nuisance from neighbours.
A committee of MPs in the Brussels Regional Parliament backed the so-called “agent of change” principle on Monday. Under the measure those that live adjacent to an existing nightclub or venue will be responsible for talking any issues they might have with noise nuisance themselves rather than trying to force the club or venue to change or close.
The measure is designed to prevent the future of long-established clubs and venues coming under threat by complaints about noise nuisance from new residents. In has come about following cases in the recent past where nightclubs that have been open for decades were forced to (temporarily) close following complaints about noise nuisance from neighbours.
One example of this is the legendary Brussels nightclub Fuse that was forced to close temporarily in 2023 following noise nuisance complaints.
Nightlife an important part of Brussels’ economy
Supporters of the plan say that nightlife in Brussels an important part of the capital’s identity and the city’s economy. However, in recent years nightlife venues have come under increasing pressure due to an increase in complaints about noise nuisance and several venues closed either temporarily or permanently.
Under the new rules anyone that constructs or renovates a house within 20 metres of a nightclub must take steps to reduce nuicence that they might suffer due to noise. They can do this by, for example, installing soundproofing. By the same token new nightclubs and music venues must also ensure they do not disturb existing residents.
The new rules only apply to designated nightclubs and music venues and does not cover occasional events or parties, concerts or festivals held in community centres, parish halls and the like.
Property developers and landlords will also have to inform potential buyers and tenants if a property is close to a nightclub. This will allow people to take potential noise nuisance into account before they decide whether or not to move to a property that is close to a music venue or night club.
The proposal still needs final approval from the full Brussels Parliament.