Consultation launched to tune-up busking guidelines for Reading

PLANS to adopt localised advised guidance for buskers and street entertainers performing in Reading are being consulted on by the Council, in partnership with Reading Business Improvement District (BID).

Busking and other forms of entertainment are valued contributions to the vibrancy of Reading town centre, with many acts building their livelihoods performing in public spaces. However, feedback from some residents and local businesses suggest concerns about some of the more loudly amplified and repetitive performances.

The proposed ‘Guide for Busking and Street Performing in Reading’ would seek to join a growing number of towns and cities that have already adopted localised guidance for performers. The guidance would seek to balance the interests of buskers and street entertainers with those who live, work and visit our streets and shared public spaces, by promoting the best of busking and street entertainment.

If agreed following consultation, the guidance will also apply to other activities, including street preaching and campaigning, especially regarding noise levels and amplification.

The council has enforcement powers to tackle busking and street entertainment where there is a persistent adverse impact, but in practice, only serious incidences warrant these powers being used. The proposed code is intended to be a tool for local businesses to use to engage with performers near their premises and for BID wardens, police, and council officers to promote a positive and respectful busking climate. 

Alexa Volker, Reading BID manager, said:

“Buskers and street performers are capable of creating a much-valued vibrant atmosphere in Reading town centre, helping to make Reading an attractive choice for thousands of visitors each week who come for its strong retail and hospitality offer.

“However, there are occasions where busking performances, and particularly amplification levels, can have a detrimental impact on those working and living in the town centre as well as those visiting.

“Reading BID is keen to create a space where everyone feels welcome and respected and we look forward to working in partnership with the Council and other stakeholders  to develop some principles for busking in Reading which makes it clearer and fairer for all.”

Cllr Karen Rowland, lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, said:

“Busking is a positive and integral part of the fabric of vibrant High Streets across the country, and Reading is no different. Whilst many people enjoy busking and other forms of street entertainment in our town centre, we also know that some residents and local businesses object to some of the more loudly amplified performances in busy shopping areas. 

“We want to encourage good practice amongst our vibrant busking community, and set out reasonable advice and guidelines for sharing the limelight sensibly and respectfully.

“We are keen to ensure local buskers and street performers are at the heart of this process to shape the guidance, as well as residents, business owners, and visitors to Reading. Please take a few minutes to fill out the consultation and inform us how Reading can create the best positive environment so that busking can continue to be a positive part of our exciting and lively town centre.”

The consultation can be found at: www.reading.govocal.com/en-GB/projects/busking-guide-consultation, and runs until 15 September.

ENDS