We are street performers who bring energy and culture to Westminster. However, we've watched our stages diminish as local council decisions have led to the closure of many busking pitches. Suddenly, we find ourselves limited to unsafe or unsuitable locations to share our art with the public. Despite being licensed buskers, abiding by rules, and paying our due fees, we struggle to sustain ourselves due to lack of accessible spots. This unprecedented situation directly impacts our livelihoods, restricts public access to live art, and muzzles a vibrant part of the city’s culture.

According to Statista, street performances ranked third among the types of arts attended by London tourists in 2019, behind only theatre and museums. Street performers are an integral, vibrant part of London's cultural landscape, critical to the city's tourism industry and the diverse cultural experience it offers to locals and visitors alike.

We need Westminster Council to step in and ensure street performers can continue to add value to this vibrant city. We urge the Council to reopen closed busking pitches and create new, safe, and accessible slots for street performers to entertain. Furthermore, we call on the Council to conduct meaningful dialogue with buskers, find mutually beneficial solutions for the distribution of pitches, and enact fair policies that support the survival and growth of street art in Westminster. Stand with us in protecting this integral part of Westminster’s community spirit. Sign the petition to demand fair access for street performers, today!