BCC considers lifting Amphitheatre ban?

Gibson Mhaka

THE Bulawayo City Council (BCC) is considering lifting the ban on musical shows at the Amphitheatre, which was imposed after residents complained that they were ratepayers contributing more revenue than the occasional shows.

Due to complaints from residents in nearby areas about the noise levels at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre when music shows, particularly those featuring Winky D, Jah Prayzah and Alick Macheso take place, the local authority decided to ban all shows that go on until the wee hours of the next morning.

According to the latest council minutes, Ward 28 Councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu argued that such events had a positive impact on the city’s economy and suggested lifting the ban on musical shows at the Amphitheatre.

“Discussion ensued and Councillor N. Ndlovu (Deputy Chairperson) noted that performances after 9 pm had been banned at the Amphitheatre resulting in events moving to ZITF. He stated that such events had an effect on the economy of the City. He was of the view that the ban be lifted,” the minutes read in part.

Ward 20 Cllr Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi emphasised the importance of generating revenue from the Council’s venues and the need for flexibility in terms of timelines.

She explained that the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) understood the operational dynamics of events and, therefore, the Council should be more open and accommodating.

Responding to the sentiments expressed, the Director of Housing and Community Services Dictor Khumalo highlighted that residents had complained to the Council about noise and vandalism, which ultimately led to the ban on musical shows at the Amphitheatre.

Khumalo indicated that a report had been presented to the Council regarding noise and vandalism complaints from residents, leading to the decision to ban musical shows at the Amphitheatre.

He stated that the theatre was located in an open space, making it unsuitable for musical shows, which are typically better suited for enclosed spaces where noise control can be implemented.

The Town Clerk Christopher Dube advised that a soundproofing system should be installed to mitigate noise levels and minimise disruptions to residents.