Scoop  Regional

7 January 2008

Media Statement

Councillor Calls for Greater Enforcement on Visual Pollution

City Councillor Yani Johanson has today called for greater enforcement of visual pollution following the proliferation of advertising signs being erected in public spaces.

Cr Johanson believes that over the past 12 months there has been a noticeable increase in the advertising signs which are destroying the environmental amenity of public reserves and streetscapes.

Key examples include: (photos attached)

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* Fendalton Rd/Harper Ave

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* Main Road Causeway (between Ferrymead and Redcliffs)

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* Cambridge Green (Cnr. Barbadoes St/Salisbury Street)

Yani Johanson, City Councillor, said today:

"I believe the Council needs to take swift and firm action on the people responsible. This sort of visual pollution should not be tolerated. It degrades public areas which have had significant public expenditure on enhancements. Unless the Council acts with authority now, this problem will continue to grow and the visual pollution will get worse. I do not want to live in a city whose every corner is crawling with advertisements. There are plenty of private spaces available for people to advertise, so there is no good reason why they need to do it on public land."

"In the case of the Causeway, there has been a long history of personal signs which should be allowed as they add character and a certain uniqueness to this area. But when signs are advertising the circus and private companies it is unacceptable and they should be removed."

"I have today written to the Chief Executive of the Council expressing my displeasure at the lack of enforcement action, and seeking clarification around what can be done to penalise those people who are creating such a nuisance."

ENDS

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