Silencing the streets? Birmingham considers tougher noise rules for city centre

Buskers, street preachers and anyone using loudspeakers could soon face stricter rules in central Birmingham, as the city council looks to expand its crackdown on excessive street noise.

A proposal is being drawn up to broaden the use of Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), which already restrict amplified noise in parts of the city centre.

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If approved, the expanded order could apply to more streets, including Victoria Square, Cannon Street, Temple Street and New Street – areas already well-known for lively street performance.

Read more: Tougher rules on way for Birmingham to tackle 'intimidating' city centre atmosphere

The council says the move comes after a surge in complaints from residents, landlords and businesses, who claim constant noise is disrupting daily life and driving people away. One council officer even reported suffering hearing damage from standing too close to a loud speaker.

Officials argue that the voluntary code of conduct for street performers hasn’t worked, and that previous efforts to resolve the issue informally have fallen flat.

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Under the proposed changes, buskers and preachers using amplification would need permission to perform, or risk being moved on. But the council insists this won’t be a blanket ban. Political protests, street traders with permits, and emergency services would be exempt.

Still, critics warn the plans could muzzle public expression and damage Birmingham’s vibrant street culture.

The current PSPOs are set to expire in August. Rather than letting them lapse, the council is looking to tighten them up – and a public consultation is expected in the coming months.

For now, it’s a balancing act between keeping Birmingham’s city centre alive with music and energy – and making sure it doesn’t come at the cost of peace and quiet for those who live and work there.