Since Christmas, Coventry has now introduced a more stringent permit system. There used to be a reasonably permissive paper permit system years ago, but the new scheme is much more complex.
You will need to contact CV1 (the company that administers the City centre) and ask for an interview. You'll have to provide two passport style photographs and agree to the code of conduct.
You'll be given a permit with your photo on it which you should have on you whilst you're busking.
Busking spots round the City centre are allocated by the day; you have to telephone on the day (between 9 and 11am) to book. Saturdays are booked on Friday mornings.
You have to stick to one spot all day and no-one else can play that spot on your allocated day. You may to play for 40 minutes at a time, with 40 minute breaks.
I have been told that the number of permits is being limited and that local people will be preferd. There is also an "audition" element to getting the permit.