The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
New council guidelines for city centre buskers
Council chiefs have unveiled a strict set of rules Aberdeen buskers could be asked to abide by. The new guide – if approved – would outline, where, when and how loudly performers can play.
The idea of introducing a set of by-laws for musicians first came about in 2019, but the plans were put on hold during the pandemic.
It came after residents in the city centre raised concerns over amplified tunes being blasted through speakers at unsociable hours.
Some claimed the noise can sometimes be “overwhelming and intrusive”, while others branded the performances an “annoyance”.
The public are now being asked for their thoughts on a raft of proposed restrictions.
They say the introduction of a “code of practice” for street musicians will ensure “a harmonious and respectful busking environment for all”. These measures include:
● Identifying specific “busking zones” in the city
● Volume and duration limits to every performance
● Prohibiting songs that convey “hate speech” or any material that promotes discrimination, harassment, or violence.
Under the proposals, buskers will only be allowed to play between 10am and 8pm, seven days a week.
They should also be mindful of their volume levels, with the council stressing their songs should entertain passers-by – not people standing more than 100ft away.
The latter is to avoid any disturbance or annoyance to businesses and residents.
If the proposed rules are approved, buskers will only be allowed to play at four city centre spots.
These are St Nicholas Square, Schoolhill outside the St Nicholas Centre, outside the Trinity Centre on Union Street, and outside the Bon Accord Centre on George Street.
Buskers will also not be allowed to play at the same spot for more than two hours at a time.
This is to encourage “fairness” among the musicians, with everybody getting a chance to showcase their talents at a popular spot, while being considerate of neighbours.
Community leaders have previously said that any new rules on busking should be thoroughly thought through so they don’t make Aberdeen appear “anti-culture”.
Councillors also stressed the authority needs to strike a balance between “buskers who bring vibrancy” to the city centre and the needs of local residents.
During the latest discussion, George Street councillor Ryan Houghton said: “We want to encourage these artists because we know the value they can add to the city centre experience.
“However, people live in the centre too, and having an AC/DC cover blasted out of an amp under your flat window probably isn’t ideal if you’re sleeping off a night shift. However, any new policy would have to be thoroughly consulted on, taking a light-touch approach.”
An online consultation will be open to the public until April 21.