The Department of Transport and Municipal Services has released a discussion paper and is seeking public comment on roadside memorials which will assist in the development of a formal ACT Government policy on the placement of roadside memorials in the ACT.
The ACT Government recently made a commitment to develop a policy for the placement of roadside memorials. The policy will also outline how the views and impact on residents in adjacent properties are to be considered
Many individuals feel the to erect roadside memorials in memory of accident victims. There are differing views on roadside memorials in the community and this consultation process will allow everyone who has an interest in this matter to be heard. The ACT Government would like to establish a formal and consistent approach for the handling of roadside memorials. Recognizing that this is a sensitive subject they are seeking a wider range of views before finalising the policy.
A discussion paper outlines some of the key issues and puts forward three options for roadside memorials:
- Option 1: accepting all forms of roadside memorials which would formalise the status quo while also establishing set guidelines to clarify what is acceptable and what is not;
- Option 2: allowing a park bench and / or permanent plaque subject to an approval process; or
- Option 3: officially condoning trees or floral roadside memorials only.
Feedback received on the discussion paper will be considered in the development of a draft policy to be released for formal public submissions in mid-November 2009.
The discussion paper is available from http://www.tams.act.gov.au or from Canberra Connect shop-fronts and ACT Public Libraries. Feedback can be made online or via a written submission to Roadside Memorials, Community Engagement and Communications, Department of Territory and Municipal Services, GPO Box 158, Canberra City ACT 2601.
Comments close on Friday 16 October 2009.