Sutton plans to regulate loud street preaching and busking

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 17:46 · Archive

Sutton Council proposes powers to reduce amplified sound from street preachers and buskers in town centres.

Sutton Council has drawn up plans giving authorised officers powers to tackle loud street preaching, busking and performances in Sutton High Street and Beddington Park. Under the draft Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), officers could order people using amplification equipment to reduce the volume, switch it off or stop using it altogether. An authorised officer could also order someone to hand over their speakers or other sound equipment.

The proposals would apply where sound amplification causes or is likely to cause 'nuisance, annoyance, harassment, alarm or distress'. Amplification equipment is defined widely, covering microphones, loudspeakers, amplifiers, megaphones, loud hailers and public-address systems, as well as other devices designed or adapted to amplify music or speech.

The proposals do not amount to an outright ban on preaching or busking. Lawful protests and certain public processions are exempted from the restrictions, alongside council-authorised events and emergency services. The order is part of a wider planned crackdown on anti-social behaviour across Sutton, which also includes restrictions on e-scooter riding, dog control, fishing, barbecues, parking and use of sports facilities. People suspected of breaching the order could be required to give their name and address.

How it is being reported

• Sutton plans to tone down loud street preaching and busking in town centreStreet preachers could be told to turn down their speakers or hand them over under proposed new anti-social behaviour rules in Sutton.Croydon Guardian · 3 Nov, 17:00
• Sutton plans to tone down loud street preaching and busking in town centreStreet preachers could be told to turn down their speakers or hand them over under proposed new anti-social behaviour rules in Sutton.This Is Local London · 3 Nov, 17:00

In this story: Sutton Council · Sutton · Sutton High Street · Beddington Park

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