Graffiti is a major problem for Ringwood and as such the August meeting of the Ringwood Chamber of Commerce featured a presentation from Maroondah City Council in regard to the draft illegal graffiti strategy.

The persistent presence of graffiti can have a detrimental impact on local amenity and is often seen as a sign of neglect. As a result graffiti can have a detrimental impact on local businesses and the local community.

The Ringwood Chamber of Commerce provided considerable feedback, particularly in reaffirming the need to promptly remove the presence of graffiti on all property located within the municipality. The rapid removal of graffiti removes the ability for taggers to showcase their graffiti and when used in tandem with other initiatives it can significantly reduce the presence of graffiti.

As the representative group for traders within Ringwood it is encouraging to see the Ringwood Chamber of Commerce stress the need for council to implement the urgent removal of graffiti.

As part of the proceedings of the evening I formally introduced myself as the ward councillor for Loughnan’s Hill and outlined my background in community advocacy. Loughnan’s Hill Ward with the eastern boundary of Warrandyte Road encompasses most of the designated Ringwood Transit City Area and as such the views of the Chamber are directly relevant to my ward.

Ringwood will experience considerable change over the next three years and while these changes into a vibrant transport hub will be largely positive it is crucial that the Chamber is in regular contact to discuss the issues relevant to commerce within Ringwood.

I look forward to continued discussions with the Chamber and will advocate on their behalf within council.

The Public Exhibition period for the illegal graffiti policy ends on the 11th of August. Once community feedback has been collated the revised document will be considered for adoption by council.

Please visit www.ringwoodchamber.com.au for further information on the Ringwood Chamber of Commerce.