Are street performers in Birmingham city centre too noisy?

The past six months have seen an increase in noise complaints related street performers using amplifiers in Birmingham city centre.

These complaints focus around the New Street and High Street and New Street and Temple Street areas which are home to many residents.

The Council said they have attempted to work with people who use amplification and musical instruments in the street to reduce noise levels to a reasonable level. They have also taken formal enforcement action against some individuals.

Despite these interventions, they said the noise levels are such that they cause a nuisance as well as harassment and distress to residents.

This has lead the council to run a consultation into a proposed declaration of public space protection orders (PSPOs) to restrict the antisocial behaviour of using amplification equipment and musical instruments in these residential areas - and to stop from causing harassment, alarm or distress.

We ask the people of Birmingham what they think. You can see what they said in the video below. We’ve also featured their comments below. Do you agree?

Stacy says: “My opinion on the performers in the the city is - I don’t mind. I think it adds to Birmingham - it makes it, like, more rustic and it’s nice to come out - it’s a big city - especially from like small towns - I quite like it.”

Faizal says: “It’s a good thing really - a bit of entertainment in the city centre. Like I said, no objection to music, instruments. It’s all good, it’s all good. It’s keeping a lively vibe and and keeping us all together really!”

Gordon says: “A fortnight ago we came to town - to the Hippodrome Theatre - come home and caught the bus down the New Street station there and the music going from outside people there was that loud, horrendous… you don’t want that. You can buy things now that you can plug in your ear and listen to your own music!”

Darren says: “Me personally, I think it brightens up the city. People are struggling - how they’re supposed to get their music out there?”

Muhammad says: “As long as as they’re not disturbing the peace I have no problems with them. To be honest, it creates an entertaining environment as well. Brings more life to the city if you know what I mean as well.

“Preachers as well - as long as they convey a good message. A positive message as a religion should. Can I see no problem.”

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