skip to main content

Petition to Stop the Busking Bans in Kensington and Chelsea

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea are proposing to introduce a Public Spaces Protection Order which means that buskers could be subjected to a fine of up to £1000.

Published: 17 May 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM
Instrument case on busy street.
Instrument case on busy street. Photograph: Shutterstock

Buskers have entertained the public on Portobello Road, in the South Kensington museum district and outside Harrods for many years, and these are considered iconic locations for street performers.

The Musicians’ Union (MU) is concerned by the punitive measures that The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea want to introduce to curb this vital stream of revenue for musicians.

Busking can provide the first stepping stones into a long and varied musical career and has been the starting point for some of the UK’s biggest artists. It is a vital part of our country’s rich musical history and we urge the borough to actively engage in constructive dialogue to help resolve the issues.

Show your support by signing the petition.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

An orchestra rehearsal with young people playing various instruments, two have adaptive instruments.

MU Marks Disability History Month 2025

Celebrate UK Disability History Month 2025 with this curated round-up of news and resources for disabled musicians and anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge and allyship. Discover funding tips, networking opportunities, MU support and more.

Published: 05 December 2025

Read more about MU Marks Disability History Month 2025
Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work
Flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union next to each other.

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

A new UK–EU Cultural Exchange Coalition has launched today, uniting the MU and major creative organisations to push for removing post-Brexit touring barriers. The alliance seeks to turn political promises on cultural exchange into action supporting artists and renewing collaboration.

Published: 03 December 2025

Read more about Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth
An aerial view of Derry in Northern Ireland.

MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry

Members are invited to join the MU in attending the NW Music Makers Forum in Derry to discuss collaborative support for the live music sector. Taking place on Friday 12 December 2025.

Published: 02 December 2025

Read more about MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry