According to reports, the authorities in Barcelona may fine U2 for disturbing the local community with their long and loud rehearsals for their current European tour. The city explained that they were pleased to be hosting the launch of the band's live dates, but had indeed received complaints about the levels of noise generated by their practice sessions, held for a couple of weeks ahead of their first tour performance in Barcelona on Tuesday.
The group were apparently given permission to rehearse until 10pm, but, according to local newspaper El Punt, continued on until midnight at sound levels of 70 decibels. The council have declined to comment on how much the fine might be, but El Mundo said on its website that fines of up to 15,000 euros are possible. A statement from the council said: "The District of Les Corts has fulfilled its duty in attending to neighbours' complaints and has acted administratively in the face of a possible failure to comply with time and noise creation regulations".
Meanwhile, local businessman Alfons Huescar told reporters: "While business outlets cash in on fans flooding in, residents can't even open their windows at home".