Central Coast Council is inviting community feedback about its draft Graffiti Management Strategy 2021-24, which is now on public exhibition.
The Strategy sets out the approach that Council will take in managing graffiti, in partnership with local groups, and outlines five key priorities, easier reporting and rapid removal, partners in graffiti, prevention education through environmental design and providing legitimate art opportunities.
Director of Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said the Strategy was based on evidence about what worked and reflected best practices in graffiti management.
“Not only does it aim to create a sustainable, significant and measurable reduction in graffiti, the Strategy also looks at ways to increase community awareness and understanding of the issue and provide residents with legitimate avenues to express themselves creatively,” Vaughan said.
The Strategy is the result of input from a range of local stakeholders and will be the first Coastwide graffiti management plan, replacing the strategies of former Wyong and Gosford councils.
Mayor, Lisa Matthews, said Council was committed to working collaboratively with community partners and developing programs that would make a difference in stamping out graffiti.
“Graffiti affects neighbourhood appearance, businesses and community confidence in the safety and security of public places,” she said.
“This Strategy seeks to reduce the negative impacts of graffiti felt by the community and visitors and increase pride in local areas, so that we can make the Central Coast a better place to live, work and play.”
The Strategy can be viewed, and comment made online at yourvoiceourcoast.com until September 13.
Media release, Aug 19
Central Coast Council