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In support of the PSPO and a balanced approach to public space use
Purpose and scope
This policy sets out the expectations, rules, and enforcement approach for street performers in Blackpool Town Centre. It aims to:
- Encourage positive street culture and artistic expression
- Prevent nuisance and obstruction
- Support town centre businesses, residents, and public safety
Legal framework
This policy supports and is enforceable through:
- Blackpool Town Centre Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)
- Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
- Environmental Protection Act 1990
- Highways Act 1980
- Licensing Act 2003
Busking consent scheme
Street performance is not permitted in the PSPO area without prior consent from Blackpool Council or its authorised agents. Performers must apply using the council’s street entertainment consent form and agree to abide by the conditions outlined below.
Code of conduct for performers
All performers shall:
- Not perform within three metres of any entrance, exit, or queue to a business
- Not perform within 50 metres of another performer
- Not perform at an unacceptable volume – if it can be clearly heard at 50 metres, it is too loud. Performers must manage sound levels and adjust equipment to minimise impact
- Not use street furniture (e.g. public seating, bollards, railings, lamp-posts, planters, or sea defences) as part of their performance
- Not perform for more than 1 hour and 30 minutes in one location, and must not return to the same location (or within 50m of it) for at least 3 hours
- Buskers/performers must have valid public liability insurance readily available for inspection when requested and should be included when applying for consent
- Petrol generators must not be used
- Performers must work respectfully with one another, and must not interfere with another performers act
- Performances must stop immediately if there is a risk to public safety
- Performers must not act in a vulgar, offensive, or aggressive manner
- Actively requesting money is not permitted – a container (e.g. hat, box, or instrument case) may be used to accept voluntary donations only
- Performances may only take place between 9.00am and 9.00pm
- The area used must be left clean and tidy
- Performers aged 14 to 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult
- Performances should only take place in the mapped areas, as identified (insert link) with due consideration for:
- The size of the expected audience
- Noise levels
- Obstruction of footpaths or entrances
Enforcement and disputes
Consent is issued to allow street performers to operate with minimal regulatory control, based on trust and cooperation.
In the event of a complaint or issue:
- Officers will first engage informally and offer a verbal warning
- If the performer fails to comply, formal enforcement may follow:
- Consent may be revoked
- A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £100 may be issued for PSPO breaches
- Persistent issues may result in prosecution or escalation to CPW/CPN
Right of appeal
If your consent is revoked or enforcement action is taken, you may appeal
Visit:www.blackpool.gov.uk
Or contact: 01253 477477
Review and updates
This policy will be reviewed annually in collaboration with:
- Blackpool BIDs Ltd
- Residents and businesses
- Enforcement partners and performers
Next scheduled review: August 2026