Friday, February 24, 2012

Tests will tell if Naremburn church bells are taking their toll

THE debate over silencing St Leonard’s Catholic Church in Naremburn moved one step closer to a resolution over the weekend as sound tests were conducted to simulate the installation of six imported bronze bells. 

The tests aim to end an ongoing dispute between the church and nearby residents over the noise the bells produce.

Community objection to the proposal late last year spawned a Willoughby Council decision to establish a working group for further discussion.

The group consists of Naremburn residents, council members and representatives of St Leonard’s church. Willoughby Council said it needed more time for community concerns to be fleshed out.

“It’s everything, from how loud and for how long they ring,” Council general manager Nick 
Tobin said.

Donated anonymously by a north Wales church, the bells have a combined mass of 2.05 tonnes and chime at around 110 decibels.

The church hopes to see them used for Sunday services, weddings, funerals and on special occasions including Easter Vigil and Anzac Day.

They could chime for up to 45 minutes at a time. But those against the idea say the bells could soon lose their charm.

Virginia Van Homrigh lives on Wheatleigh St, adjacent to the St Leonard’s tower and represents resident concerns as part of the working group.

“It’s loud and the noise radiates,” she said. “It wouldn’t matter if it were bells or a jazz band.”

Anne Summerhayes lives nearby, but said she loves the sound. 

Mrs Summerhayes said the bells would bring people together but conceded that 45 minutes may be too long.

Mr Tobin said he expects the results to be returned by the beginning of March for consideration by elected members at the March 26 Willoughby Council meeting.

“Let’s hope that whatever the result, it’s one the community, the church and residents are happy with.”