AN application for a second electronic billboard on Nepean Highway Mornington has been recommended for approval by Mornington Peninsula Shire Council officers, despite concerns about neon signs providing the peninsula with a Las Vegas-like landscape.
The proposal is for a billboard-style sign at 1002-1004 Nepean Highway, several doors up from one erected earlier this year at 988 Nepean Highway.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal had overturned the council’s 2020 refusal of the application, prompting Cr Anthony Marsh to call for change.
At the 8 August council meeting, Marsh successfully moved that the council “explore options for a strategic planning response to the potential proliferation of billboards and similar intrusive signage across the Mornington Peninsula”.
The brightly lit sign and the VCAT decision had led to allegations that it brought a “Vegas” feel to the peninsula and was another example of council powers being whittled away.
Mornington resident and former councillor candidate Louise Page, said neon signs were not appropriate for Mornington, and were “tacky”.
Seven people objected to the latest billboard application, mainly in relation to the need for the billboard, visual impact and neighbourhood character, road safety (distraction), and impeding views to existing signs.
Despite this, council officers have recommended the application for approval, subject to the proposed 14.35-metre-high structure being lowered to maximum 13.5 metres, which is the same as the other electronic billboard.
A report by strategic planning team officers is expected to be presented to council on 5 September to “explore options” in relation to large electronic billboards.
First published in the Mornington News – 5 September 2023
