Westminster Ordered to Stop Amplified Busking

A judge has ordered Westminster Council to stop the amplified busking in Leicester Square after it was compared to 'psychological torture' due to its volume and repetition. The case was brought by Global Radio, which reported that employees had to retreat to cupboards to escape the noise, and by Simon Thomas of the Hippodrome Casino, who described the sound as 'tortuous'. Despite numerous complaints, the council had failed to address the issue, leading to legal action under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The judge highlighted that the repetitive and poor-quality performances exacerbated the nuisance, likening it to techniques used in psychological torture. The council intends to balance reducing nuisances while maintaining vibrant street entertainment. The ruling calls for a reevaluation of the busking regulations to ensure businesses can operate without disruption.