skip to main content

Sign the Petition to Stop the Busking Ban in Birmingham

MU asks musicians to sign the petition against new proposals in Birmingham that would ban busking in many of the prime pitches in the city.

Photo ofBen Benson
By Ben Benson Published: 26 January 2022 | 5:07 PM Updated: 28 January 2022 | 1:32 PM
Close up of the Birmingham Bullring shopping centre with a sunny and cloudy sky reflected in the mirrors of the building
We call on the council to rethink this drastic and draconian policy that will leave dozens out of a job. Image credit: Shutterstock.

New proposals have been announced in Birmingham that would ban busking in many of the prime pitches in the city. At a time when the arts sector is emerging from its biggest crisis in recent memory, it is the worst possible moment to be depriving Birmingham's entertainers of their livelihoods.

The areas involved in this PSPO are among the most viable and profitable areas, leaving musicians to play only in pitches where they will make significantly less money, while the relentless selling off of public land in Birmingham further reduces busking opportunities. If this passes, busking in Birmingham will become a thing of the past.

We call on the council to rethink this drastic and draconian policy that will leave dozens out of a job. We would love as many people as possible to sign this petition, but the most important thing you can do is make your voice heard on their official consultation here. This is absolutely vital if we are to get these proposals overturned.

Please be aware that the questions have been skewed heavily towards introducing restrictions and as such please take care when answering.

Sign 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