Busker fined more than £11k for street trading

Jason Allan (pictured in December 2023), was fined more than £11,000

A busker has been ordered to pay more than £11,000 for selling an event ticket and distributing promotional leaflets.

Jason Allan, 27, was proved guilty in absence of street trading without permission in Pride Hill, Shewsbury, on 3 November 2023.

He was taken to court by Shropshire Council who said he had refused to accept his music and actions had a negative impact on the wider community,

He was given the maximum fines available for his crimes and told to pay prosecution costs. Mr Allan has been contacted for comment.

"Jason Allan simply refused to accept that his music and actions had a negative impact on the wider community, and failed to change his behaviour," said head of business and consumer protection, Frances Darling.

At Telford Magistrates Court he was fined £1,000 for street trading and £2,500 for distributing leaflets without permission - the maximum penalties for the offences.

He was also told to pay a victims surcharge of £1,400, and prosecution costs of £6,286.30.

"Jason Allan has been afforded every opportunity to comply with the council’s Street Trading Policy and local environmental rules about the distribution of leaflets, but ultimately he failed to do so," said Ms Darling.

"We welcome street entertainers and buskers as we recognise the important part they play in creating a welcoming and vibrant town centre."

"We do, however, need to ensure we protect residents, businesses and the town’s historic environment and for this reason we ask that street entertainers perform in a way that benefits all residents, businesses and visitors to the town," she added.

Ms Darling added street performers should read the Shrewsbury Street Entertainers Guidance to ensure legal requirements are satisfied.

"If anyone is found to be irresponsibly flouting the laws, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary," she said.