Lawrence-Tuapeka Community Board member Anne Cheng had proposed enhancing Lawrence’s main heritage precinct on Ross Pl by using promotional flags, as employed widely elsewhere in the country.
At the board’s April 15 meeting, she was asked to research the feasibility of such a project.
During the latest meeting, on June 10, she presented her findings to the board.
Her report said options ranged from about $5000 to $11,000 for 12 to 24 flags or banners, similar in style to those seen in neighbouring towns, such as Milton.
Although the project concept met with broad support from the board, members raised concerns about its timing.
A long-standing project to enhance the entrance to the town’s historic gold rush site, Gabriel’s Gully, was under way, and was likely to require significant funding, board members said.
However, this could provide an opportunity to consider the flags at a later stage, as part of enhancements.
Mrs Cheng said, since floating the project concept with residents, she had received ‘‘no negative response’’ from those she had spoken to.
‘‘About 15 residents were asked whether they support the proposal. Their response was overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic.
‘‘[Regional tourism organisation] Clutha Development has also been approached.
‘‘Again, the response is positive and supportive.’’
‘‘They provide a memorable experience and a sense of place and beautification, as well as communication about celebrations and events.’’
Ward councillor and board member Roger Cotton reiterated that he was not personally in favour of the concept, regarding it as a ‘‘nice-to-have’’ at best.
He said questions remained about NZTA rules regarding signage along state highways, like Ross Pl.
Board chairman Geoff Davidson also raised concerns.
He questioned whether modern signage would be a ‘‘good fit’’ for the Victorian gold rush precinct, and how it might be funded.
However, other board members said they supported the project, while pointing out, at present, funding needed to be deployed towards the Gabriel’s Gully project.
Board member Tim Dickey said he favoured the project, which could enhance other initiatives.
‘‘We could use [flags] tactically to complement the Gabriel’s Gully project and Lawrence’s heritage values. I don’t believe they would be an eyesore.
‘‘The Milton attachments are not an eyesore when there are no flags up.’’
The board voted to defer the project until a later date.
Workshops on current projects were ongoing, during which the possibility of integrating flags could be raised.
