People in the city centre have had their say on an order which could limit where buskers can operate in Nottingham.
The Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) mean buskers who are causing an "unreasonable disturbance" can be moved on and also introduce 'no-busk' zones, as well as prohibiting a number of actions which are deemed to be anti-social.
A PSPO was granted by Nottingham City Council back in 2018 and is set to expire next month.
The authority is planning to extend the order for another three years.
People in the city have been speaking about the issue - and opinion is split.
Williamina Maccullum, 76, who has lived in Highbury Vale for more than 50 years, said: "I think they should do it.
"Most of the buskers are absolutely fine, but some of them can be very loud and even rude and intimidating.
"It can be bad for businesses, too, if they are outside. So I agree, these orders sound like a good idea."
'No-busk' zones are located either side of the Council House in Old Market Square.
David McReary, 55, told Nottinghamshire Live: "I think buskers are great for the city.
"Each one is something different and they're something to listen to or look at as you're walking around. I'd have no problem with them anywhere.
"I think it's a good idea to make sure that Big Issue sellers are legit, though, because you need to make sure all the money is going to the right place."
Meanwhile another woman, who asked not to be named, said: "I must say I've never heard of the orders.
"Having said that, if it keeps things in order that must be a good thing.
"Even if they have the power to kick people off the street, I can't imagine they would do it that often unless they were actually causing a problem.
"I think most people like buskers."
The PSPOs state an individual must not:
- Obstruct the entrance to or exit from any building, hinder street cleansing activity or block the highway.
- Offer for sale the Big Issue magazine unless on an authorised sale pitch and wearing appropriate identification.
- Display a mobile advertisement without consent.
- Busk from a prohibited location or cause an unreasonable disturbance whilst busking.
- Distribute free matter without consent or lawful authority.
- Make requests for money, personal items, charitable or other donations without consent or lawful authority.
- Urinate or defecate in a public place.
- Possess or ingest a psychoactive substance.
Breach of a requirement or restriction contained in a PSPO, without reasonable excuse, is an offence which can carry a £1,000 fine.
In terms of Big Issue sellers, the council said no-one should sell the magazine unless authorised to do so and on one of 15 sales pitches located across the city.
Since the PSPO came into effect, 17 fixed penalty notices have been issued to a total of 11 individuals for attempting to sell the Big Issue magazine without displaying a valid badge.
The recommendation will be discussed at an Executive Board meeting at Nottingham City Council on Tuesday, February 22.
The current PSPO will expire on March 17 if it is not extended.
Speaking previously, Councillor Neghat Khan, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods, Safety and Inclusion said: “I’m proud to say that we have listened to concerns from residents, businesses and visitors about a range of behavioural issues across the city centre, and the PSPO is our response to those concerns.
“This legal tool allows Community Protection Officers and the police to challenge and enforce against a range of behaviours, which regularly cause a nuisance.
"Having had a successful three-year PSPO in place, we have seen some positive changes and we remain clear that we are a welcoming city for all visitors.
“However, we will also enforce where necessary to ensure that all residents, businesses and visitors can feel safe without fear of anti-social behaviour.”
To read all the biggest and best stories first sign up to read our newsletters here.
