COUNCIL chiefs have defended new rules on busking in Worcester - insisting they have no intention of driving performers out.

As the Worcester News revealed on Tuesday a detailed new policy is set to come into force for the street musicians, which include limiting them to 45 minutes in "any one place".

The new 'Code of Conduct' will also require them to quit after 9pm, not display signs asking for money and "move on" if requested by an official.

The Labour leadership says the code will be a voluntary one and insists it does not intend to use any of the council's existing enforcement powers.

It has also revealed how the code, which is expected to launch from April 1, will include a "bedding-in period" so they can get feedback on how it is working.

Councillor Geoff Williams, cabinet member for economic prosperity and growth, said: "We're trying to ensure the city centre meets the needs of everyone, so we want to strike a balance between shoppers enjoying live music and the needs of businesses and retailers to trade successfully.

"We're aiming to make this code of best practice work for all without the need for formal enforcement.

"There are some powers available to the council, but we have no plans to use them.

"We want the city centre to be a lively attractive place that everyone can enjoy."

Worcester News:

The new code will replace an old one put together over 10 years ago, which allowed buskers a full hour in any one place before being required to move on, and let them perform until 10pm.

The changes were drawn up in response to concern from some retailers, rather than the public, with similar restrictions in place in cities like Birmingham, Cambridge and York.

Meanwhile the Musicians' Union has also weighed into the debate, urging council chiefs to avoid stepping in unless there is a "genuine noise nuisance".

Stephen Brown, the union's Midlands organiser, has sent the authority a copy of its own policy, which includes a 15 minutes break once a busker has performed for 45 minutes, before asking them to "consider" another position.

Worcester busker Malicia Dabrowicz has also contacted us to call for special designated locations around the city.

She said: "Busking is not easy - standing with a guitar in front of the public is one of the bravest acts an artist can do.

"Sometimes our artists are verbally harassed. We need designed spots where buskers can feel safe and where they can perform, not the other way around."

She is also calling for the 9pm cut-off to be lifted for special events like carnivals and festivals.

The Labour cabinet will vote on the updated code in March.