Sharp increase in noise complaints about buskers

Buskers must only play in a spot in Oxford for one hour at a time, the council's code of practice states

There has been an sharp increase in complaints about noise from buskers in Oxford city centre.

Oxford City Council's response to a freedom of information request showed that from the start of 2024 to May, there were 28 complaints.

This is compared to 2023, when there were 16 complaints in the entire year and there were only two in both 2022 and 2021.

The council does not issue licences for buskers but has a code of practice they must abide by.

The code states buskers should only perform in one place for an hour and never outside 09:00 and 21:00.

They also cannot use animals as part of their performances and should not use mains or generator power for amplification.

The authority said it had taken court action against buskers who breached the code and some have had equipment confiscated.

Alex Hollingsworth, its cabinet member for business, culture and an inclusive economy, said buskers are a "vital" part of culture and welcomed on the streets of Oxford.

He added: “However, we do have a code of conduct for buskers, and it’s important that everyone sticks to it to avoid causing a nuisance to people who live and work in the city centre."

Susanna Pressel, another city councillor, said she was "sorry to hear" about the increase in complaints and added: "Many of the buskers are really excellent and bring a lot of joy."