NEW restrictions have come into force regarding music performances at the bandstand in the lower gardens after a number of groups were banned from playing. The Agency Soul Band and several other amplified music groups had their July dates cancelled because of noise complaints from residents.

Jon Weaver, events manager at Bournemouth Tourism, said: “Only the council’s PA system may be used for performances and full details must be provided in advance of any amplified instruments with details of what is being amplified.”

Mark Smith, service director for tourism, said: “We hope these revised guidelines ensure people are able to enjoy a wide range of entertainment in the gardens whilst keeping local residents happy.”

Now local brass bands have also spoken out about the “drastic cuts” and reduced performances for many well-established groups. Brass band conductor Paul Williams said: “This prominent bandstand has been left to near ruin over the past few years. “Bands are hardly paid a penny now, parking has been restricted, there are no changing rooms any more, advertising is minimal and the number of bands has been drastically cut.”

Paul works as a guest conductor and player for many bands in Bournemouth and said Boscombe Salvation Army has complained but most groups are worried about upsetting the council. Major Carelle Begley from Boscombe Salvation Army said: “We haven’t got anywhere near as many dates as we used to. We did have one every Friday and now it’s just three or four over the whole summer.”

The performances have been cut down due to budgetary reasons according to the chairman of Bournemouth Brass Band, Ken Taken.

Mr Weaver said: “We put a number of measures in place at the start of this season in order to minimise any disruption to residents during the summer bandstand programme.”