Lights go out on freeway billboard
The first of 10 electronic freeway billboards erected on Kwinana Freeway, at the pedestrian overpass at Bull Creek train station, has been switched off.
The sign was switched on only yesterday.
The West Australian revealed last year that other advertising signs would be erected at Hepburn Avenue, Hutton Street and Warwick Road on the Mitchell Freeway and Berrigan Drive on the Kwinana Freeway.
But Transport Minister Dean Nalder today asked the Public Transport Authority to turn off the billboard to allow a safety review of the location.
"While the State Government fully supports the use of these types of advertising tools in certain locations, I am aware of the high level of public and stakeholder concern about this specific site," Mr Nalder said.
"I have asked that the signage be switched off - that has been done - until this review is completed."
The Minister has asked Mains Roads WA to review information relating to the placement of the sign and potential hazards.
"Main Roads WA will undertake the review and report back to me in early May," he said.
"I will seek extra advice from the agencies involved to satisfy myself before I will permit this particular sign to be switched back on, or before any additional advertising signs of this type are installed."
APN Outdoor (Trading) Pty Ltd is paying the Government a minimum of $6.2 million over the life of the 10-year contract for the signs, with an option for four additional signs if the Government is satisfied with the operation.
Mr Nalder had said the proceeds of the contract would go towards reducing traffic congestion and road safety initiatives. Alcohol advertising will be banned.
The second billboard is scheduled to be installed on another PTA bridge over Great Eastern Highway in Burswood on May 18.
