DECISION

1.    To note the detail of this report and plans for tackling graffiti across the borough.

2.    To agree the Graffiti and Street Art Policy (Appendix 1 to the report).

Action by:

ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, PLACE (A. SUTCLIFFE)

(Divisional Director, Public Realm (D. Jones)

(Business Manager, Operational Services (R. Williams)

Councillor David Edgar, Cabinet Member for Environment, introduced the report on the Council’s proposed new Graffiti and Street Art Policy. He highlighted that graffiti was a significant issue that the Council was right to be concerned about. He welcomed the report as setting out clearly the powers the Council had to tackle graffiti and the investment being made in the service.

Turning to Street Art, he welcomed the policy as providing a framework for ensuring that valuable works could be retained and supported.

A general discussion then took place during which a number of Members welcomed the policy. It was noted that many people came to the area to explore the street art and that it was beginning to drive some tourism. In relation to the delivery of the policy it was noted that it depended on effective engagement with partners and the owners of the properties impacted. Councillor Denise Jones, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, noted that she was a shop owner and that this policy was likely to be of benefit to all shops and similar businesses in making the borough more attractive to visitors.

The Mayor also welcomed the report. He thanked everyone for their contributions and also noted that it would be useful to see what support could be provided for apprenticeships in relation to this programme. He agreed the recommendations as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the detail of this report and plans for tackling graffiti across the borough.

2.    To agree the Graffiti and Street Art Policy (Appendix 1 to the report).