True, I was lucky that the London Borough I lived in were not fussed providing no neighbours complained and there was no substantial increase in traffic etc.
The easiest and cheapest thing I did was befriending the neighbours, I have always thought this was the best way to avoid problems., I have been in the same place for 6 years now and not a whisper of a problem from anyone.
(Also Flash cars in London are not a great idea if you want to keep them :-)
Andy