AC/DC and Oasis Face Noise Complaints at Edinburgh Gigs: Local Residents Voice Concerns

Noise Complaints Rock Edinburgh Stadium Concerts: AC/DC and Oasis Face Scrutiny

October 2, 2025

Edinburgh’s Murrayfield Stadium is at the center of a noise dispute following complaints lodged against recent performances by rock icons AC/DC and Britpop legends Oasis. The incidents have reignited a conversation about balancing large-scale events with the quality of life for local communities.

Concert Noise Triggers Resident Concerns

In August, AC/DC’s first scottish performance in a decade garnered eight formal complaints regarding excessive noise levels, according to reports from the BBC. Earlier in the same month,Oasis’s series of three ‘Live ’25’ concerts at the 70,000-capacity venue also drew similar criticism from residents.

Environmental health officials conducted noise measurements both at the stadium and in surrounding residential areas. Their findings indicated that the permissible noise limits were surpassed during the AC/DC concert, with the primary cause identified as the fireworks display concluding the show. This echoes a growing trend of scrutiny over amplified events and their impact on urban environments.

Council Considers Fireworks Restrictions

In response to the complaints, Edinburgh Council officials are now considering a ban on fireworks at future events held at Murrayfield Stadium. This potential restriction underscores the council’s commitment to addressing noise pollution concerns and ensuring a harmonious coexistence between entertainment venues and local populations. According to a recent study by the UK Noise Association, fireworks contribute to 45% of noise complaints during large events.

Liam Gallagher’s Prior Disagreement with Edinburgh Council

This is not the first instance of friction between Oasis, or rather its former frontman Liam Gallagher, and the Edinburgh Council. Previously, Gallagher publicly criticized the council after a report suggested that Oasis fans might be disruptive. He responded strongly on social media, labeling the council officials with harsh terms. The incident highlights the sensitivities surrounding event planning and perceptions of audience behavior.

Adding to the recent developments, Gallagher recently generated social media buzz with cryptic announcements of an impending revelation. he has also alluded to future plans following the band’s recent performances at Wembley Stadium, generating speculation about potential touring schedules.

Event Noise: A Growing Challenge for Cities

The incidents in Edinburgh reflect a broader challenge faced by cities worldwide: managing the impact of large-scale events on local communities. Balancing economic benefits with the need to protect residents from noise pollution requires careful planning, enforcement of regulations, and open interaction between event organizers, local authorities, and residents.

Artist	Date(s)	Complaints	Primary Noise Source
AC/DC	August 21	8	Fireworks
Oasis	August 8, 9, 12	Multiple	Overall Concert Volume

Understanding Noise Regulations for Events

Noise regulations for events vary significantly depending on location, event type, and time of day. Many cities have specific decibel limits and restrictions on the use of fireworks and other noise-producing devices. Event organizers are typically required to obtain permits and adhere to strict noise management plans.A recent report from the European Environmental Agency shows a 15% increase in noise-related complaints across major European cities in the last five years.

Did You Know? Noise pollution can have critically important health impacts, including stress, sleep disruption, and cardiovascular problems.

Pro Tip: If you are planning an event, it is indeed crucial to proactively engage with local communities and address their concerns regarding potential noise impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Event Noise

• What is considered excessive noise at a concert? Excessive noise is defined as any sound level that exceeds the permitted limits set by local authorities, typically measured in decibels (dB).
• How do councils measure concert noise? Councils use specialized sound level meters to measure noise levels at various locations around the event venue.
• What can residents do if they are disturbed by concert noise? Residents can lodge formal complaints with the local council, who will investigate the matter and take appropriate action.
• Are there alternatives to fireworks that create less noise? Yes, alternatives include laser shows, drone displays, and enhanced lighting effects.
• How do event organizers mitigate noise pollution? Event organizers can use noise barriers, strategically position speakers, and implement sound management plans.

What are your thoughts on the balance between live music events and community wellbeing? Share your opinions in the comments below!

What technological solutions are being explored to mitigate concert noise pollution in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh Residents Report Disturbances from Recent Concerts

Recent concerts by rock legends AC/DC and Britpop icons Oasis at Edinburgh venues have sparked a wave of noise complaints from local residents. The issues, primarily centered around excessive bass and prolonged sound levels, have prompted calls for stricter regulations regarding concert noise pollution in the city. Both gigs, held within a week of each other, drew massive crowds, amplifying the impact on nearby neighbourhoods. This isn’t the first time Edinburgh has grappled with concert-related noise, but the volume of complaints surrounding these two events is notably high.

Details of the Complaints: AC/DC and Oasis Edinburgh Shows

Residents living within a one-mile radius of murrayfield Stadium (AC/DC) and Leith Links (Oasis) reported a range of disturbances. Common complaints include:

* excessive Bass: The low-frequency sound waves travelled meaningful distances, causing vibrations in homes and disrupting sleep. Many residents described feeling the bass “through the floor.”

* Prolonged noise Levels: Concerts often extend late into the night,with sound checks beginning hours before the scheduled start time. This extended period of loud music proved particularly disruptive.

* Impact on Families: Parents reported difficulty getting children to sleep, and concerns were raised about the impact on those with medical conditions sensitive to noise.

* Property Damage Concerns: While unconfirmed, some residents expressed fears that prolonged vibrations could potentially cause minor structural damage to older buildings.

Edinburgh Council’s response and Existing regulations

The Edinburgh Council has acknowledged the complaints and is currently investigating the situation. Existing regulations regarding noise levels at outdoor events are outlined in the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 and supplemented by specific conditions imposed on event organizers. These conditions typically include:

* Noise Level Limits: Decibel limits are set for different times of the day and night.

* Sound Monitoring: Event organizers are often required to conduct sound monitoring at designated points around the venue.

* Complaint Procedures: A clear process for residents to lodge complaints during events.

* Event Curfew: Strict curfews are enforced to limit the duration of the event.

However, critics argue that these regulations are insufficient, particularly regarding low-frequency noise (bass) which is harder to regulate and travels further. The council is now considering reviewing these regulations in light of the recent complaints.

Similar Cases: Concert Noise Complaints Across the UK

Edinburgh isn’t alone in facing this issue.Noise complaints are a common occurrence at large-scale concerts across the UK.

* Wembley Stadium (London): Regularly receives complaints from residents in Wembley and surrounding areas.

* Glastonbury Festival (Somerset): While iconic, the festival consistently generates noise complaints, despite extensive mitigation efforts.

* Various City Center venues: Smaller venues in city centres often face similar challenges,balancing the needs of entertainment with the quality of life for nearby residents.

These cases highlight the ongoing tension between the economic benefits of large events and the right of residents to peaceful enjoyment of their homes.

Potential Solutions and Mitigation Strategies

Several strategies can be employed to mitigate concert noise pollution:

* noise Barriers: Constructing temporary noise barriers around venues can help to contain sound.

* Sound System optimization: Utilizing directional sound systems and carefully adjusting sound levels can minimize noise spill.

* Bass Management: implementing advanced bass management techniques can reduce the transmission of low-frequency sound waves.

* Community Engagement: Proactive dialogue with residents before events can help to manage expectations and address concerns.

* Real-Time Noise Monitoring: Utilizing real-time noise monitoring systems allows event organizers to quickly respond to any breaches of noise limits.

* Stricter Regulations: The Edinburgh Council could consider implementing stricter regulations, particularly regarding bass frequencies and event curfews.

The Role of Technology in Noise Management

Advancements in audio technology are offering new solutions for noise management.

* Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): While primarily used in headphones, ANC technology could potentially be adapted for larger-scale applications.

* Digital Sound Shaping: Software that can shape and direct sound waves,minimizing noise spill.

* Predictive noise Modelling: Using computer modelling to predict noise propagation and identify potential problem areas.

These technologies offer promising avenues for reducing the impact of concerts on local communities.

Legal Recourse for Affected Residents

Residents experiencing significant noise disturbance may have legal recourse. Options include:

1. Reporting to the Council: The first step is to formally lodge a complaint with the edinburgh Council.
2. Environmental Health Officer: Requesting an examination by an Environmental Health Officer