Buskers face curbs in noise crackdown

Street performers in Cork could face curfews, amp-free zones, and space restrictions under tough proposals designed to tackle busker noise pollution.

Drums could be banned and musical performers would have to learn a minimum of 20 songs to avoid repetition before being allowed to perform in public.

The moves are part of a package of proposed bylaws put forward by Cllr Ken O’Flynn (FF) following calls from business leaders for City Hall to introduce a voluntary code of conduct to crack down on noisy buskers and street performers.

The Cork Business Association (CBA) said the noise pollution must be tackled following a raft of complaints from traders.

One businessman in the Paul St area, whose customers have complained about noisy street performers, said: “As a rate-paying business operating from these premises for the last 35 years, we feel we’re doing everything on our side to contribute to the business life of the city, but we are getting absolutely no assistance from the powers that be.”

City Hall and gardaí have told traders that the street performers at the centre of the complaints are breaking no law. Legislation in the 1992 Environment Act only governs noise pollution coming from buildings and homes, not public streets.

The city council rejected CBA proposals some time ago to introduce bylaws to control the use of generators and amplification equipment street performers.

Now, the CBA has urged the council to follow Dublin City Council’s lead and introduce a voluntary code of behaviour for buskers.

The code, introduced in July, covers issues such as amp-free zones, behaviour, crowd control, and health and safety issues.

“There has been a generally positive reaction,” a spokesman for Dublin City Council said. “Street performers and businesses have reacted favourably to it and there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of complaints relating to noise.

“The council continues to work with the performers, businesses, and other stakeholders on fine-tuning the code. The council is still taking feedback.”

CBA chief executive Donal Healy said business owners appreciate the contribution that street performers make to the atmosphere and culture of Cork City.

“We want that festival atmosphere to be maintained and fostered,” he said.

“But we must ensure that these performers respect business owners who are trying to maintain trade in these difficult times.”

The busker noise pollution issue will be among several issues discussed at a meeting of the Cork City centre business community safety forum tomorrow.

Mr Healy urged all interested business owners to attend at City Hall at 10am.