Despite peace being declared between the Rector of Bath Abbey and several buskers who – he said – disrupted his services – it seems long-term plans to control the level of amplified music in Abbey Churchyard are still under consideration.
The Rector – the Reverend Prebendary Edward Mason – made the announcement of a meeting between himself and the buskers – on Bath Abbey’s Facebook page.
It read:
‘In light of recent events and the consequent media interest, Bath Abbey Rector Edward Mason and colleague Claire Robson met with street musicians Jack Morgan and Ben Powell today.
The meeting provided an opportunity to share how distressing the last few days have been for both the Abbey and the street musicians.
Apologies were given and received and both parties explored how they can work together towards resolving this issue.
Both agreed that the Abbey’s first concern continues to be the needs of the people who enter this holy place.
Both recognised the special contribution street musicians make to the life of the city.
Both recognised the need for a workable system that allows street performance to flourish while respecting those who live and work in the city.
The meeting concluded warmly with a mutual determination to draw a line under the past and foster good relationships in the future.’
However, Cllr David Dixon – who is Deputy Leader of B&NES and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods – has told the Virtual Museum that he is pleased a meeting has taken place.
‘Although this is great news, both groups are very aware of the need to have a scheme that is enforceable.
It’s peace at the moment – with the current group of buskers – but what happens when other buskers come along and ruin it for everyone else?
We will have all interested parties in soon and look to work up an enforceable scheme.
The Council is still looking at the amplification ban as a longer-term solution.’
