INDEPENDENT NEWS

Draft bylaws aimed at balancing use of public places

Published: Wed 6 Aug 2014 12:47 PM
6 August 2014
Draft bylaws aimed at balancing use of public places
Auckland Council and Auckland Transport are seeking feedback on draft bylaws aimed at managing trading activities and events in public places.
The new bylaws will replace the 10 different sets of rules inherited from Auckland’s previous councils that related to trading and events in public places, including in parks, beaches and roads.
Activities covered by these bylaws are: markets and stalls, mobile shops, outdoor dining, fundraising (including the soliciting or collection of subscriptions), offering of commercial services, distribution of promotional material or goods, outdoor display of goods, street performers and pavement artists, filming and events.
“These new bylaws will continue to support the vibrancy and enjoyment that comes with street trading and events in public places, while ensuring that other users of public places are protected,” says chair of the council’s Regulatory and Bylaws Committee, Cr Calum Penrose.
“That includes ensuring footpaths are kept uncluttered so there is plenty of space for pedestrians and those with limited mobility to safely navigate.”
Cr Penrose acknowledges that changing to region-wide bylaws will mean the level of change for traders will vary in different parts of Auckland but that it is important there is fairness and consistency.
In general the draft bylaws propose that:
• some forms of trading will require approval from the council before it can occur, including outdoor dining areas, run markets and stalls, operate a mobile shop and fundraise in a public place
• permission will continue to be required to hold an event or film in public places
• activities with low impact will not require permission but traders will have to meet conditions to ensure the area is not overcrowded and cluttered
• identify areas where particular activities cannot occur in order to ensure public safety, prevent nuisance, minimise obstructions or the damage or misuse of public places
• any trading activity that takes place in a park or reserve obtains all necessary approvals.
Submissions on the proposed bylaw close on Thursday 4 September 2014.
For more information, including both proposed bylaws and to make a submission go to shapeauckland.co.nz .
Documents also available at council libraries and customer service centres.
ENDS

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