2016-02-02 Planning & Organisation Committee Agenda

PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA                                2 FEBRUARY 2016


4                        PROPOSED AUDIT OF ADVERTISING SIGNAGE
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION




Author                           Manager, Planning & Environment, Kerri Coyle
                                 Planning & Infrastructure Department

Index                            ECM /Subject / Signage Survey /Audit

Attachments                      Nil


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Manager, Planning & Environment to the Planning &
Organisation Committee Meeting dated 2 February 2016 regarding a proposed audit of
advertising signage.



REPORT
1.                       Background

The character and feel of Noosa’s towns and villages is a significant influence on resident
and visitor perception of Noosa. Features such as human scale development; integration
with the natural landform and landscape; low key informal atmosphere; low stress traffic
environments; and high proportions of vegetated land compared to developed land all play a
key role in characterising Noosa Shire. This means that in Noosa, buildings are low rise of
predominantly 2 storeys, development is largely secondary to the natural environment,
natural landscapes are conserved and reinforced, roundabouts are preferred to traffic lights
and advertising signage is subdued.

These features are recognised and distinguish Noosa Shire from other parts of South East
Queensland. These features are incorporated into the provisions of The Noosa Plan, Local
Laws and Council policies and are key issues when assessing new development proposals.
However some development matters do not require an approval from Council before
proceeding, subject to meeting a prescribed set of requirements and are largely self-
regulated. One of these matters includes advertising devices and it is evident that the extent
of advertising signage throughout the Shire has increased over time, with some signage
erected in breach of The Noosa Plan and the Local Law.

Signs in Noosa should advertise a place of business or give directions and or information.
They should be architecturally attractive and be compatible with the character of the area
and not dominate streetscapes. Well designed and maintained signs which respect the scale
and character of the street do serve an important function and role. When signs do not relate
to the area, are excessive in size, numbers and feature large designs, they reflect poorly
upon the overall quality of the area and can detract from the function they are intended to
serve.




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