The Culture and Neighbourhoods Scrutiny Commission met on Thursday 3 September 2026 to discuss the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Zones 1 and 2, the BUSK Leicester pilot initiative, and the 2026/27 Festivals and Events Grants Programme. Decisions were made to note the reports presented and to ensure that comments from commission members were taken into account by lead officers. A further report on the vision for festivals was also requested.

Public Spaces Protection Order Zone 1 and Zone 2

The commission received an update on the work of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in Zone 1 and a proposal for a new PSPO in Zone 2. The Head of Safer Communities reported that in the first quarter of PSPO Zone 1 operations, 180 incidents were managed, with 51 breaches. The initiative supported 24 vulnerable people and provided immediate medical assistance on seven occasions, including the use of Naloxone. Key projects in Zone 1, such as those on Cank Street and Upper New Walk/Nelson Street, have reportedly reduced open drug use and rough sleeping, receiving positive feedback from local businesses.

The proposed PSPO for Zone 2, which will target areas outside the city centre, followed a six-week public consultation that received 1217 responses. Concerns raised included open drug use, street drinking, littering, and noise nuisance. The commission noted that PSPO Officers have powers under the order but are not Police Officers, and they do not patrol alone. It was also clarified that a dedicated number and website would be available for residents to report issues, though PSPO Officers are not a blue light service. The commission agreed to note the report, have member comments considered by lead officers, and receive a higher resolution map of the PSPO areas.

BUSK Leicester – Overview

The commission reviewed the BUSK Leicester pilot initiative, which ran from March to May 2026. The scheme aimed to provide a managed way for buskers to perform in the city centre while balancing the needs of businesses, residents, and visitors. An online booking system was implemented, and during the pilot, 117 bookings were made, with Gallowtree Gate and High Street being the most popular locations. A survey indicated that 92.3% of artists felt the scheme provided them with a performance space, and 79% would use it again.

Discussions highlighted that there were no booking fees for performers and that the service engaged with businesses to understand their needs. While the scheme focused on acoustic instruments, it also aimed to address issues with amplified music, which could breach PSPO regulations. The commission agreed to note the report and ensure member comments were considered by lead officers.

Festival & Events Grants Programme 2026/27 – Overview

The commission received an overview of the 2026/27 Festivals and Events Grants Programme, which included a new commissioning process and criteria. The programme budget was increased from £165,000 to £230,000, with an additional £65,000 approved to support a broader range of festivals and events. This investment reflects the council's commitment to providing accessible cultural experiences.

Sixty-eight applications were received, requesting a total of approximately £927,000. After excluding 33 ineligible applications, 20 festivals and events were recommended for support, with awards ranging from £5,000 to £45,000. Notable recipients included Leicester Caribbean Carnival, Leicester Mela, Leicester Pride, Black History Month, Leicester Comedy Festival, and Bring the Paint. The commission agreed to note the report, ensure member comments were considered by lead officers, and requested a further report on the vision for festivals.

Work Programme

The commission noted its work programme. It was requested that a further report on festivals be brought back to the commission.