Cover Letter + OPW Signage Report - Bay Village · OPW20/0107

2.    Proposal

The applicant proposes to remove 2 existing freestanding signs on the premises and replace it with
one, double sided freestanding pylon sign in a similar location. The proposed sign will form part of
a seating structure surrounding the existing leopard tree in the immediate vicinity of the existing
signs. The operational works application constitutes the following:

     •    Removal of the two existing free-standing signs forward of the existing leopard tree;

     •    New concrete freestanding sign overall dimensions 3.0 x 1.2m;

     •    New concrete and timber seating around base of tree integrated with the base of sign;

     •    Sign- face area on both sides of the sign totalling 4.1 m2;

Appendix A - Proposed Signage Plan illustrates the proposed signage location and extent. The
proposed development has been designed to integrate the various existing pylon signs and a-
frame signs that are located near the western entry to the Bay Village complex into one freestanding
sign. The setback takes into account the existing mature tree which is to be retained as part of the
proposal and allows for clear identification of the business within Bay Village. The incorporated
seating proposed to surround the tree, is designed to create minimal impact on the tree and will aid
in protecting the rootzone from unnecessary compaction by foot traffic.

An arborist review has been prepared which considers the existing health of the tree and potential
for damage to the rootzone by construction of the proposed sign and seating structure. The arborist
has concluded that the existing Leopard Tree condition is fair with reduced vigour likely caused by
the coastal location, suppression by the adjacent street tree (Weeping Fig) and lack of available
suitable rooting medium with pavement tiles preventing moisture penetration.

The proposed seating design will not require footings and the structure placed on top of the
concrete slab surrounding the tree. The arborist review considers this harm minimisation technique
utilised in the footing construction will help minimise root damage. A 2 metre diameter opening
inside the seating structure will increase the porous surface area around the tree. A layer of sandy
loam will be placed on the existing surface to provide moisture retention and growing medium for
low growing ground cover plants in accordance with the arborist recommendations. The arborist
review is included at Appendix B.

The sign results in an improvement to the visual aesthetic of the locations, reducing visual clutter
resulting from various signs of differing styles and sizes. The proposed freestanding sign provides a
cleaner, more coordinated signage solution. Each face of the proposed sign has no more than 2.05
m2 of sign face area with the remaining surface being kept free of advertising.

Figure 1 below, demonstrates the proposed integrated signage and seating structure proposed for
the site.




RG Strategic                Operational Works Application – Placing an Advertising Device on a Premises   3