Busker stations aim to bring more life to Sydney's downtown

The Sydney Downtown Development Association is hoping a new busker programwill drum up more visitors to the Cape Breton city's downtown.

Ten spaceshave been designated for use by buskers over a stretch of five blocks on Charlotte Street.

Michelle Wilson is the association's executive director.

"Business goes where the people are, so we're trying to attract people down through this busker program," she said. "Its a fun and high-energy environment, so the more people that come down, potential business owners and entrepreneurs might see that and decide they want to open a business downtown."

The busker stations are available for anyone to use as long as they are respectful of the rules, which includeno amplified music, offensive behaviouror blocking the sidewalk.

Buskers are encouraged to open their instrument cases to collecttips from spectators.

The association is encouraging people to use the hashtag #downtownsydneybusks so artists and spectators canshare performances on social media.

The stations were set up in front of businesses where the association was given the OK from the businessowner.

Ed Gillis is the owner of Ed's Books and More on Charlotte Street. Hesaid he's allowed a friend to busk in front of the store before.He has a busker station in front of his shop.

"We'll get some people down here performing, it'll definitely draw some people," said Gillis. "It's a good thing."