Investigations into the ‘Holmfield hum’ – noise which some but not all residents say they can hear, affecting their health – is at an end.

Calderdale Council has announced this afternoon its extensive investigation into the possible cause of the noise in the Holmfield area of Calderdale, which can also be heard in Queensbury, has reached a conclusion.

Despite all efforts, officers are unable to evidence a statutory nuisance or to identify the source of the alleged noises, says the council.

A noise consultant’s independent investigation came to the same conclusion.

Based on the outcome that the council and independent expert reached, Calderdale has closed the complaints made by local residents pending any new evidence, and all complainants are aware of this outcome, says the authority.

Cabinet member for Public Services and Communities, Coun Jenny Lynn (Lab, Park) said investigations could be restarted if new evidence came to light.

“We have given our all to this investigation and left no stone unturned, because we care about local people and understand the impact that the alleged noises have had on some residents.

“This has been a highly complex case with many challenges, including the area’s landscape, the mixed residential and commercial urban environment, the fact that not everyone can hear the reported noises, and because low frequency noise is notoriously hard to detect across the country.

“At this time, we are unable to take matters further.

“We know this is not the outcome that the complainants were hoping for, but we have exhausted all current lines of enquiry.

“We don’t doubt that some residents are experiencing noise, so we will regularly review the situation and we’re happy to restart our investigations if any new evidence comes to light.

“We will continue to work with anyone who asks for our support, and will act on any new findings from national research into low frequency noise,” she said.

The council says the investigation has been “complex and thorough” including staff working day and night to try to detect the reported noises, visiting residents’ homes and local businesses, listening very carefully to people’s concerns, and appointing an independent noise consultant.