Massive billboard irks councillor
According to Clr Hart, a billboard of that magnitude is normally found on highways.
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A billboard along Van Riebeeck Avenue is unwanted by Edenvale residents and the ward councillor, Clr Heather Hart.
According to Clr Hart, a billboard of that magnitude is normally found on highways.
“A billboard that big poses threats of distraction and the structure on the road does not look very safe either,” said Clr Hart.
She said the application process for the the billboard was sent to ward 19 but was supposed to be sent to ward 18. Hence, the application was received by the wrong ward councillor.
As a result, the planning was not clear to Clr Hart and other concerned residents.
“According to a council resolution, if no response is received from the councillor it will be taken as ‘tacit’ approval,” she said.
Clr Hart will attempt to drive a petition to object to the billboard remaining on Van Riebeeck Avenue.
“I am horrified that outdoor advertising thinks putting a billboard there is acceptable,” said Clr Hart.
She said she will not object if the billboard was placed on the other side of the R24 highway and not in the residential area and entrance to Edenvale.
“The billboard is a monstrosity and an aberration of good city planning,” she said.
“City planning is supposed to develop good spaces,” she said.
Clr Hart requested residents who share her concerns about the billboard to contact her via email at hhart@netactive.co.za
“According to our records, the billboard erected on Van Riebeeck Avenue was approved on September 15 last year. Based on the fact that the billboard was approved, it will not be removed,” said Mr Themba Gadebe, the spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.