Co-op delivery drivers in Earlham Road disturb neighbours

Neighbours aren't happy with delivery drivers at the Co-op <i>(Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)</i>
Neighbours aren't happy with delivery drivers at the Co-op (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)
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Angry neighbours who have been disturbed for months by "noisy" delivery drivers are calling for supermarket staff to put a stop to the problem.

They claim every night motorists shout, play music, take phone calls and leave engines running at all hours outside the Co-op on Earlham Road.

The Co-op store (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

The site became a magnet for antisocial behaviour after securing a 24-hour licence in April, with delivery drivers “hanging around” and revving their engines while waiting for orders.

People living in Earlham House, a block of flats directly opposite the shop, have endured "sleepless nights" and were forced to shut their windows during the hot weather to reduce the racket.

The flats at Earlham House (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

Neighbour Ms Jodie Rowe said: "I have been disturbed by car and bike engines, loud talking on phones, engines being left idle and music playing, just to name a few.

"I have told them to be quiet on a regular occurrence.

"Several other tenants are experiencing the same problems."

Mr Joseph Yahya, who works at Euro Max Norwich, a convenience store nearby, said: "People come to my shop and complain about the Co-op.

Euro Max Norwich (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

"Neighbours say they can't sleep because the drivers are constantly shouting.

"I spoke to the manager of the Co-op who said there is nothing they can do."

Ms Mia Bailey-Emblin, who works at the post office, said: "Some people were in the post office complaining about it yesterday.

"They were really against it and said it wasn't what they signed up for when they moved here."

Mr Tim Part, who lives nearby in Recreation Road, said although the delivery drivers "come and go constantly", they are always "polite".

Tim Part (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

"Sometimes the system of collecting orders draws staff away from the tills, that's my only criticism," he added.

A Co-op spokesman said: “Our 24-hour quick commerce service at this store helps to provide greater access for people who may need to shop outside of traditional opening hours, including shift workers and parents of young families.

"We recognise the importance of being a responsible retailer and have worked with our delivery partners to take steps to minimise any impact of the service on the local community and will continue to monitor and engage with local residents and the council."

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