Media Release
22 June 2006

Visual Pollution Under the Spotlight

Temporary signs that cause visual pollution are under the spotlight as Manukau City Council begins public consultation on its latest bylaw review.

The public has a month to give feedback on proposed changes to the bylaw regulating signs and a proposal to revoke the bylaw controlling billiards rooms, amusement and shooting galleries. Submissions are open from 26 June to 28 July.

Environment and Urban Design Committee Chairman Noel Burnside says the proposed new rules will give the council greater control over problems with temporary signs.

“Temporary signs in some parts of the city are just visual pollution, cluttered real estate signs are a particular eyesore. We also see signs placed on footpaths that force pedestrians onto the road.”

Cr Burnside says across Manukau there are a large number of inappropriately located and sized temporary signs. Anecdotal evidence suggests they are increasing, he says.

“This bylaw change is designed to allow a range of temporary signs on both private and public land. But it will help the council ensure traffic and pedestrian safety as well as getting rid of obstructions.

“It will also minimise the potential for offensive content and prevent damage and misuse of council property.”

The proposed temporary signs bylaw will not deal with sandwich boards, banners and portable commercial signs. They will be dealt with as part of the review of the Street Traders and Public Places bylaw.

Proposed changes to the temporary signs bylaw relate to:

- general portable advertising and information signs

- real estate – the sale or lease of buildings

- cultural, religious, community or sporting events

- land subdivision and development and construction projects

- elections and polls.

The council is also proposing to revoke its consolidated bylaw in relation to billiards rooms, amusement and shooting galleries. Consultation with interested parties, including the police, reflected that a bylaw is not the most appropriate method of ensuring they are properly managed and patrons’ behaviour is regulated.

Billiards rooms, amusement and shooting galleries can instead be regulated by using a range of Acts of Parliament.

The public can review the proposed bylaw changes by requesting a summary document or a full copy of the bylaw changes from:

- the Manukau City Council Customer Services Centre Kotuku House, Manukau Square

- any Manukau City Council Library

- Council's website at www.manukau.govt.nz/bylaws.htm or

- contact Council's Call Centre on 262 5104.

ENDS

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