BUSKERS in a city centre will have to audition and apply for licences for the first time in a bid to control noise.

Musicians and street performers face having to apply for licences in Durham as part of a scheme to try and bring busking under control in the city following complaints about noise.

Durham Business Improvement District [BID] is leading the scheme to try and balance concerns of buskers and businesses in the city.

Business engagement manager Adam Deathe says buskers are an integral part of the city.

He added: “Buskers are trying to earn a living and add something to the character of the city but when they are outside businesses it can distract from the work they are doing. We have all said we want to work together to find a solution.”

Performers can apply for six-month licences and the first auditions will be held in August as part of a new monthly live music event.

The public are invited to attend and vote on which performers they want to see on the streets, and which they do not.

Mr Deathe added: “Live InDurham: Busking will be the first event of its kind in the city and we will be holding further events in the future too. We’re hoping it will give performers and artists the chance to show us how amazing they are at what they do whilst offering the public a jam-packed evening of great music and entertainment.”

Though buskers will not need a licence to perform in the city it is hoped they will sign up so they can take part in events and be promoted by Durham BID.

Guitarist Connor Thomas, 16, from Durham, said: “I think it’s probably good. There are some buskers I’ve heard complaints about so it could stop them from coming.

“I just hope I’ll be able to continue. I’m not doing it for any money, it’s just for practise in a public place.”

Trevor Gray, who plays the bagpipes and drums, said he was concerned it would not work.

He said: “Once they get licences in it will be a no go. People will be gone.”

He added that he was starting a petition to get more support. He said: “People just walk past and ignore you. I would like to get the public on side and get more entertainers in Durham.”

The first auditions takes place at Whisky River on Thursday, August 18 from 7pm.

Acts will be judged by Durham BID, Durham County Council, Durham Constabulary, the host venue and the public.

There are 20 slots available and buskers must be at least 14 years old, with parental consent given for those aged 14 to 18 years old.

Sign up online by visiting www.durhambid.co.uk/live.