To Shambles et al

Musicians are no longer powerless.

In this case their 'freedom of expression' is being prevented for no good reason: no safety risk - no noise complaints.

Under the Human Rights Act, because they are directly affected by the local authority enforcement they could bring a case against the council. Remember: where there are two possible interpretations of the law, one that is compatible with European Convention rights, and one that is not - the compatible interpretation must be adopted.

In other words, counting members of the public as performers where they sing or play an instrument is the incompatible interpretation.

It's worth investigating.

H