A FORMER Thurrock resident has been sentenced after failing to comply with a legal notice requiring her to address persistent dog barking that was causing a nuisance to neighbours.

Marcella Ferreira, 45, who lived at 21 Beechcroft Avenue, Linford, when the offences took place, was prosecuted by Thurrock Council after breaching a noise abatement notice served under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The notice required action to be taken to prevent ongoing noise nuisance affecting nearby residents.

The offences took place between 19 March and 30 May this year

The case was heard at Southend Magistrates' Court and proceeded in the defendant's absence after an application to adjourn the hearing was declined.

In sentencing, magistrates heard that the offence involved an ongoing failure to comply with the notice over a prolonged period. The court also considered the impact on neighbouring residents and the costs incurred by the council in investigating and prosecuting the case.

The court sentenced Ferreira to:

• A fine of £1,500
• A victim surcharge of £440
• Costs of £9,364.10 - payable to Thurrock Council

Ferreira has 56 days from her sentencing, on Thursday, 24 September, to pay.

Cllr Russell Cherry, cabinet member for Veterans, Enforcement and Environment, said: "Residents have a right to enjoy their homes without being subjected to persistent nuisance and disturbance.

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"When concerns are reported, the council will investigate and, where necessary, take enforcement action to protect the wellbeing of local communities.

"This was a particularly serious case which required a substantial and lengthy investigation by our Environmental Protection officers. The significant costs awarded by the court reflect the extensive work undertaken to investigate and evidence the offences.

"It was also right that the costs of taking this action were recovered from the offender rather than falling on Thurrock taxpayers."