Use this page to find out more about, and have your say on, our street performance consultation.
Street performance and busking play an important role in supporting Bath’s economy by enhancing the visitor experience, increasing footfall and contributing to the vibrancy and attractiveness of the city centre.
We recognise the value that performers bring to creating lively and distinctive public spaces, while also recognising the need to manage impacts where they arise.
Most busking happens without issues and is valued by residents, businesses and visitors. However, we do receive some complaints, mainly about noise and how well busking is managed.
What we're consulting on
In 2016 we produced the first edition of The Guide to Busking and Street Performance in Bath. We are now reviewing it.
The review supports our wider aim to create clean, safe and vibrant neighbourhoods, and lively, inclusive and well-managed public spaces, as set out in the Corporate Strategy and Street Strategy.
This ensures busking and street performance are supported in a way that balances their cultural and economic value with the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.
The consultation forms part of the wider Street Strategy, which brings together how different street activities are managed in a coordinated, fair and accessible way.
We want your views on whether the current busking guide needs amending, and your thoughts on the future of busking in Bath and North East Somerset.
Who we're consulting
We'd like to hear from residents, members of the busking and street performance community, visitors and businesses.
Have your say
Please read The Guide to Busking and Street Performance in Bath before submitting your feedback.
Questions about specific sections of the guide include page numbers to help you find the information.
This consultation is open until 4pm on Friday 4 September 2026.
We're also running two connected consultations:
If you need a different format
If you need support completing the form online or require another format, please call us on 01225 39 40 41 or email street_strategy@bathnes.gov.uk
Alternatively, you can visit us for in-person support at any of our B&NES-run libraries or information centres.
What happens next
We will consider the responses as part of our decision-making process.