THE growth of Edinburgh's live music scene is being obstructed by noise level restrictions imposed by the city council, according to the first census of its kind.

The Edinburgh Live Music Census, by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, took place on June 6, with academics and volunteers providing a snapshot of how many gigs had taken place, in which venues, and the economic impact of the performances.

They also surveyed musicians, venue managers and concert-goers.

The survey found that 44 per cent of musicians who had performed in the capital said noise restrictions had affected their gigs.

In addition, 73 per cent said the number of gigs they had played was either static or had decreased over the previous 12 months, with 81 per cent of musicians saying that Edinburgh's live music scene was either shrinking or static.

Experts are calling for a change to the requirement that all amplified music has to be inaudible in neighbouring buildings to a policy that ensures live music shows meet certain decibel levels or does not cause inconvenience.

Project researcher Dr Adam Behr, now based at Newcastle University, said: "Our research shows high levels of engagement from the city's audiences and a driven community of musicians.

"Nevertheless, the inaudibility clause appears to have a chilling effect on provision.

"Dialogue between the different parts of the council, venues and musicians is a crucial factor in unlocking the further potential of Edinburgh's year round music scene."

Dr Matt Brennan, from the Reid School of Music at Edinburgh College of Art, said: "While not an acute crisis, there are certain restrictions on live music in Edinburgh that has put a handbrake on the scene.

"Changing the inaudibility clause would be a practical way of helping what is an economically and culturally important part of the city to thrive."

Musicians and managers have previously lobbied the council on the noise restrictions. Mercury Prize winners Young Fathers spoke of their "frustration" last year at the policy. Their manager Tim Brinkhurst also accused the council of implementing "ridiculous practices".

In response to the new census, Edinburgh council has released a report outlining the potential changes to its regulations relating to the issue and stressing its commitment to supporting Edinburgh's "rich musical traditions".

Councillor Norma Austin Hart, vice convener for culture and sport, said: "The research tells us Edinburgh has a healthy live music scene and there is a huge demand from residents and visitors to attend gigs in Edinburgh all year round.

"The live music venue operators and performers who make up this scene help to create £40 million of spend in the city and support additional local jobs along the way.

"I believe it is important we listen to the concerns of this community and address the issues being raised in order to sustain Edinburgh's cultural vibrancy."

The survey's findings also indicated that despite the sound constraints, Edinburgh's live music scene remained economically robust, meaning a relaxation of regulations could lead to further prosperity in that sector.

Researchers found that live music was worth at least £40 million a year to the capital. It further found that 2.7 million people attend music events in Edinburgh annually across 23,000 performances in a city which boasts over 260 live music venues.

A meeting to discuss the survey's findings is scheduled for Tuesday.