Re: Application for Signage Recourse Consent 183 Victoria Street.

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1 18 October 2014 The Planner Resource Consent and Building Policy Unit PO Box Christchurch Attn: Clare Dale Dear Clare, Re: Application for Signage Recourse Consent 183 Victoria Street. Further to our meeting we have now prepared and lodged the resource consent for the above and wish to set out our argument in request of limited notification. The Proposal The proposal is to erect a free-standing 8m by 4m digital screen billboard on the south border of the property which will be positioned similarly to the proposal for 181 Victoria St. The screen will obscure the existing non-permitted Countrywide Billboard of _44_m2. The display is static with no animation, flashing, scrolling or video. There are essentially two amenity (environmental effects) issues being: The impact on traffic safety, and The impact on any lighting/illumination on neighbours. These issues have been studied and addressed in regards to our previous application for 181 Victoria Street & we propose that the effects are no different with the exception of adding Richard Diver of 183 Victoria St. as an affected party. Traffic An assessment of any potential adverse effects on traffic has been undertaken and identifies two issues being distraction to drivers and secondly any impact on the operation of the traffic signal heads. The conclusion in terms of the signal heads is that only one approach (south bound on Papanui Road) is of relevance. The conclusion is that the main signal head for a driver approaching the intersection is the overhead primary signal above the through lane. This approach is on an angle and therefore the signal head can never be between the driver and the sign. A similar position exists for the signal head on the opposite side of the intersection when moving away. The signal head on the far right side of the intersection is too low to be in the line of sight, and on the left side, the signal head is not in the line of sight. In terms of driver distraction all of the relevant City Plan assessment matters where considered, i.e. height, illumination, moving, flashing and traffic safety. The conclusion is that all the sign changes are static and similar to what exists. The height is such that the sign is not visible once through the intersection and although illuminated is not

2 blinking, rotating or utilising any other mechanism which could result in driver distraction. As such we can see no traffic safety reason which could require any form of notification. (See assessment report) Neighbour Amenity Lighting A detailed assessment of the lighting impact has been undertaken and the outcome of that assessment is that the sign is in a busy section of Christchurch alongside an intersection that is currently subject to a high vehicular road lighting subcategory and as such will already be bright to users of the area. The recommendations from the lighting assessment sets the luminance maximums and with the exception of a block of motels to the north-east, (which itself is greater than 50 metres from the sign), no party is concluded to be affected. This matter can be mitigated by a reduction in the image changing requirements or timing changes. (See assessment report) Conclusion Only one aspect of the development may potentially have an impact beyond the site (being the sequencing of the sign changes at night) This in turn we believe would only potentially affect one party and Etc Media have obtained the signature of the Owners and Managers of the Southern Motel on the attached Affected Party Approval Form. Apart from the motel, all of the other activities are business activities. The adjoining buildings are also largely unoccupied from around 7pm in the evening through to 7am (weekdays) with little use on the weekends. In our view the assessments reflect the absence of any significant adverse effects and support limited notification or affected party consent. The effect of the lighting is specific and contained to a small number of potentially affected parties Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Mike McCaleb, Director, ETC Media, Ltd. mccaleb@etcmedia.co.nz PO Box Barrington Christchurch 8024 Graham Osborne, Director, ETC Media, Ltd. graham@etcmedia.co.nz PO Box Barrington Christchurch 8024

3 Application for Resource Consent 183 Victoria Street Prepared for: Christchurch City Council Prepared by: Mike McCaleb and Graham Osborne, Directors, etc media 28 April 2014 etc media

4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Objective This document is intended to support our application for resource consent to erect a sign at 183 Victoria St. This position is temporary as it will be obscured by planned construction on the property ( The Smash Palace ) in approximately months. It is our hope to develop a city-wide network of digital screens. These will assist Council in providing residents, tourists and visitors to Christchurch a vibrant, modern and informative means of communication for the current goings-on in the greater Christchurch community. To gain a quick understanding of our objectives - please view the following video links: Melbourne Auckland Victoria Street, Christchurch The third video differs from the first two in that it signals our intention to use the screen network as a tool for answering the question: What s going on in Christchurch today?. This isn t merely a billboard. Goals Using our existing digital communications network, we will bring up-to-the minute details of community events, weather conditions, road closures, parking availability and when necessary, Civil Defence messages to the Christchurch community via our proposed signage network, to be supported by third-party advertising. Solution Our state-of-the-art digital display is all-weather durable, responsive to ambient light conditions, network secure, and will create an essence of energy and vibrance to our 22nd Century City. Making the best use of temporarily available space, this display is able to be clipped-on to existing structures and removed as construction obscures its visibility. In this regard, we are able to provide a communication system that is responsive to the needs of our evolving city. Furthermore, the wide variety of shapes and sizes available with the panels allow seamless integration with architectural features. The 10mm dot-pitch display is able to display full-colour high-resolution images without pixilation. Brightness is automatically adjusted to suit ambient lighting conditions. The images displayed will be static in nature without movement such as animation, flashing, scrolling, intermittent or full-motion video and following industry-standard practice, we will rotate a total of eight messages at six-second intervals. There will be a brief (1/3 of 1 second) cross-fade between images. The dimensions of the proposed digital sign will be 3.84 m by 7.68 m. We have selected this size as in response to the architecture and aspect of this site. Illumination etc media

5 The brightness of the proposed digital sign will be adjusted automatically in response to changes in light levels with a photocell receptor so that the sign is not unreasonably bright for the safety of the motoring public. We have adopted the Outdoor Advertising Association of America (OAAA) brightness criteria for digital billboards which state: Light produced by a digital billboard should not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over ambient light levels. Measurement should be taken using a foot-candle (lux) meter from (approximately) 65 metres. The distance is calculated based on the size of the billboard. This criteria is based on established scientific methodology and industry standards from the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America publication TM light trespass theory, an accepted standard in the lighting industry. Traffic Safety etc media contend that our proposed digital sign complies with NZTA Road Traffic Standards. Specifically the sign will not: obstruct, obscure or impair the safe line of sight of any corner, bend, vehicle crossing pedestrian crossing, or intersection. The safe intersection sight distance should be measured according to the Austroads Guide to Road Design obstruct, obscure or impair the view of any traffic control device (sign, signal or notice) use the colours red, green, orange, white or yellow where this is likely to form the background or foreground to or appear alongside a traffic control device of similar colour when viewed by approaching motorists contain reflective, fluorescent or phosphorescent materials that may reflect headlights, or distract or interfere with a road user's vision use flashing or revolving lights or lasers or any other method of illumination that may dazzle or distract drivers induce or invite drivers to turn so close to a turning point that there would be insufficient time to signal and turn safely having regard to the speed limit applicable in the circumstances obstruct, obscure or impair the safe passage of pedestrians, cyclists or persons in wheelchairs or mobility scooters. A number of International studies have shown that digital billboards have no statistically significant relationship with the occurrence of accidents, Accidents are no more likely to occur near digital billboards than on highway sections without them. To support our claim, we reference more than thirteen studies compiled by the Outdoor Media Association of Australia. Additionally, a recent trial in Auckland by Isite Media found no extra accidents at the intersection occupied compared with the six months before its erection (NZ Herald). The Auckland City Council have recently granted APN outdoor permission to expand their network of digital screens from one to four. etc media

6 Background etc media is a Christchurch-based company whose directorship has more than 15 years of experience in outdoor advertising communications and digital signage networks. Our directors are specialists in digital signage, out-of-home advertising and the associated hardware that makes them function. We currently operate one of the South Island s largest digital signage networks by supplying services and hardware to Foodstuffs, SI for their network of New World Supermarkets across the South Island through our sister company TV5, Ltd. Project Outline We have engaged with several CCC marketing and communications departments and all have expressed interest in using this digital network to enhance their own communications strategies. We have reserved two of the proposed eight slides for this purpose, and would make these available at 50% of our published rate card. Capability etc media will be using specialised digital signage software to operate the digital sign. We have expertise of more than 10 years using this software and have used many of its features over the years in the New World digital signage installation. Scheduling Each image has a schedule that defines when it does and does not appear. In practical terms, this means that messages only appear during relevant dates, or during certain times of the day e.g.: rush hour. etc media

7 Connectivity By being connected to our content server, messages can be updated in real-time. This connectivity also allows us to display data from a txt file, html file, or an rss feed. Our partner company TV5, Ltd uses this information to display detailed live information from the Met Service, news agencies, and Civil Defence. In Summary proposed screen covers the existing signage 3.84 m x 7.68 m. location is expected to be available for months we have made allowances for community service messages and intend to use the screen as a communication tool for the C.C.C. network connectivity allows real-time information emergency messages can over-ride advertising when necessary The digital sign will create a revenue stream for property owners. vibrant and attractive takes the place of eight billboards safe. secure. we know how to do this sort of thing. etc media

8 etc media

9 Assessment of Effects on the Environment In considering any application the Council shall, in considering whether or not to grant consent or impose conditions, have regard to the following assessment matters: (a) Area and Number: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) The visual amenities and characteristics of the locality (including tree or other planting) and whether the proposed display would be obtrusively visible beyond 50 metres (particularly in residential areas). The proximity of dwellings and the visual intrusion of the proposed display from dwellings on adjoining property across any road from the proposed display. The nature and degree of compatibility of any other existing land use activities within 50 metres of the proposed display. The classification of the road together with the nature of traffic using it and average daily traffic volumes with regard to the potential of the outdoor advertisement to distract motorists. The range and nature of land use activities on the site concerned, and whether it necessitates larger outdoor advertisements The length of the road frontage of the site concerned and the area of display proposed. (vii) The area of the proposed display in relation to the architectural characteristics of the building involved, or the site and/or frontage (where no buildings are involved). (viii) The heritage values, architectural characteristics and visual amenities of the buildings and/or sites in the (ix) (x) (xi) immediate vicinity, including the number and sizes of any other existing outdoor advertisements either on the site concerned or immediately adjoining (and the need to avoid the cumulative effect of clutter ) The likely visual prominence of the proposed display in comparison with what it may have looked like in compliance with the area rule concerned. The nature of existing or likely future land use activities in the vicinity of the proposed display, together with any relevant environmental results anticipated for that zone. The sympathy of the proposed outdoor advertisement placement to the architectural features of the building onto which it is to be placed, or the site on which it will be located. (xii) The extent to which advertisements will result in visual clutter and loss of visual coherence of the character and amenity of the environment. (b) Building identification outdoor advertisement (i) (ii) (iii) (c) Height (i) (ii) (iii) Any adverse visual effects on amenities in the vicinity due to the size of lettering, symbols or other graphics. Distraction to motorists in their observance of traffic conditions, directions or controls. The extent to which building identification impacts upon the heritage values and architectural characteristics of the building and/or site. The height relative to the area of the proposed display, and the extent to which it may project from the face of any building or other structure so as to be visible from the street. The location of the proposed display on any building in relation to its heritage values, architectural features and to the line of any eaves or parapet. The number, location and scale of any other outdoor advertisements displayed on the building or site concerned or in the immediate vicinity. ETC MEDIA, LTD 1

10 (iv) The likely visual prominence of the proposed display, by reference to its scale, colour, content, construction or illumination, in relation to the building or site on which it is to be displayed, adjoining buildings or sites and the visual amenities of the street scene generally. (v) The potential for the outdoor advertisement to distract driver s attention from traffic signs or controls in the vicinity. (vi) The extent to which the height of the proposed outdoor advertisement is sensitive to heritage values, public open spaces or areas possessing significant natural values. (d) Illumination (i) The frequency and intensity of intermittent or flashing light sources and the proposed periods of illumination. (ii) The nature of surrounding land use activities. (iii) The proximity of the display to other properties and the likely effects of such intermittent or flashing lights upon those properties. (iv) The proximity of any traffic signals or controls and whether such a display would be likely to distract drivers attention. (e) Moving, flashing or retro-reflective displays (i) Any adverse visual effects on amenities in the vicinity. (ii) Distraction to motorists in their observance of traffic conditions, directions or controls. (f) Street Scene (i) The extent to which the proposed outdoor advertisements and support structure will be compatible with the scale of other similar support structures, buildings and other developments in the surrounding area. (ii) The extent to which the proposed outdoor advertisement and support structure will detract from the outlook, pleasantness, coherence, openness and attractiveness of the site as viewed from the street and adjoining sites. (iii) The existing extent and quality of garden, tree planting and landscaping in the vicinity of road boundaries and the opportunity to provide for further such garden, tree planting and landscaping and the maintenance thereof. (iv) The extent to which the proposed outdoor advertisement and support structure is sensitive to heritage values, public open spaces and area possessing significant natural values. (g) Support Structure Visibility (i) Whether any support structure is likely to be obtrusively visible in relation to the architectural features of the building to which it is attached, or in the content of the street scene generally. (ii) Visual amenities in the vicinity of the proposed display including tree planting or proposed landscape treatment which would serve to screen any such supports from public view. (iii) Whether any alternative forms of support would likely to be less publicly visible in the particular circumstances together with any reasons offered by the applicant as to why such methods have not been proposed. (iv) The extent to which the support structure is sensitive to heritage values, public open space or the City s outstanding natural features. (h) Verandah related displays Under verandah (i) The size and location of the proposed display in relation to the nature and location of the verandah concerned. (ii) The potential for distraction of or conflict with either vehicular or pedestrian movement in the vicinity. (iii) The structural condition and appearance of the verandah. (iv) The relationship of the proposed display to any other outdoor advertisements in the immediate vicinity. Verandah fascia (i) The depth of the fascia of the verandah on which the display is proposed and those of adjoining fascias on either side. ETC MEDIA, LTD 2

11 (ii) The size of the proposed display together with its overall visual effect in relation to the street scene. (iii) The visual relationship between the proposal and the architecture of the building. (iv) The potential for distraction of or conflict with vehicular traffic. Fixed to top of verandah (i) The structural condition of the verandah in relation to the size of the display proposed. (ii) The height of the top of the verandah above footpath level and its visual relationship to adjoining properties. (iii) The potential for distraction of, or conflict between the proposed display and vehicular traffic. (iv) The nature of land uses in the vicinity and the visual impact of the proposed display. (v) The size and location of other above verandah displays in the immediate vicinity (if any). (vi) The number, size and location of other displays on the premises concerned. Above verandah, fixed to and parallel with the face of the building. (i) The size and proposed display and the extent of any proposed projection from the face of the building. (ii) The structural condition of the verandah, above which the display is proposed. (iii) The number, size and location of any other projecting signs on the premises concerned or in the immediate vicinity. (iv) The nature of land uses in the vicinity and the visual impact of the proposed display in relation to those uses. Above verandah, fixed to and projecting from the face of the building. (i) The size and proposed display and the extent of any proposed projection from the face of the building. (ii) The structural condition of the verandah, above which the display is proposed. (iii) The number, size and location of any other projecting signs on the premises concerned or in the immediate vicinity. (iv) The nature of land uses in the vicinity and the visual impact of the proposed display in relation to those uses. (i) Projecting displays (i) The size, height and extent of any proposed projection from the face of the building. (ii) The nature of land use activity below the proposed display and in particular the intensity of pedestrian activity in that vicinity. (iii) The number, height and location of any other projecting displays on the premises concerned or in the immediate vicinity. (iv) The nature of land uses in the vicinity and the visual impact of the proposed display in relation to those uses. (j) Architectural features and visual appearance (i) Whether the proposed display is to front onto a public street or place. (ii) Whether the architectural feature(s) concerned would normally be visible to persons passing the building concerned, and obscured by advertising. (iii) The nature of the activities being carried out in the building and whether these would be affected in any way by the proposed display (e.g. loss of light, access etc.). (iv) The particular significance of the architectural feature(s) concerned in relation to the overall appearance of the building from any adjoining road or public place. (v) The extent to which the proposed display projects beyond the edge of any building facade and creates a visual detraction. (vi) The height of the proposed display above ground level, and its impacts on the quality of the building facade and skyline. (vii) The spatial relationship between the building on which the display is proposed and any adjoining buildings. (viii) Whether the style and appearance of the proposed sign is likely to conflict with the amenity values of the building, or public open space. (k) Traffic safety ETC MEDIA, LTD 3

12 (i) The nature of surrounding land use activities. (ii) The extent to which the proposed outdoor advertisement relates to the business or activity on the site and the necessity for the business or activity to identify and promote itself with the need to consider wider safety and amenity concerns. (iii) Whether the sign has any potential to cause distraction, or confusion to motorists and/or adversely affect traffic Assessment of Effects on the Environment safety due to its location, visibility, and/or content including size of lettering, symbols or other graphics The display is proposed to be located in a commercial area near the intersection of Victoria Street and Bealey Avenue. The proposed display will obscure an existing non-permitted onpremise sign. The mature trees along Bealey Ave. would assist to mask any intrusive effects of the display, if there were any. We do not believe there will be any such intrusion as ETC Media have committed to equip the display with an automatic brightness control, which will dim the screen in response to ambient lighting conditions. We have undergone a detailed analysis of the existing lighting conditions by lighting engineers from Connectics Limited, (see attached addendum #2) in order to define appropriate brightness, and we maintain a commitment to undertake a further assessment after the display is installed. The proposed display is not in a residential area, so this in combination with the unlikelihood of obtrusive visibility beyond 50 metres removes concerns of visual intrusiveness in this regard. The proximity of Motels across Bealey Ave. demands a responsive approach, and ETC Media have proposed a freezing of the transition of advertisements or extending the duration of the advertisements to 30 minutes during curfew hours if deemed necessary. Additionally ETC Media have undertaken a study performed by a traffic engineering firm, Traffic Design Group Limited, to address any potential traffic safety issues, and believe there to be none (see attached addendum #1). The Heritage Knox Presbyterian Church on the opposite corner is now surrounded by other commercial activities that bear no relation to its heritage design, and the new design of the church incorporates new and modern principles more relevant to the street scene. As the billboard will have a viewable angle of 110 degrees horizontally, it will essentially be invisible from the church building itself. As the digital sign will contain as many as 8 advertisements, ETC Media would suggest that this type of sign can reduce further signage requirements by containing 8 billboards within itself. We would also suggest that no other digital displays be allowed within 200 metres of the screen in the future to protect against visual clutter. Generally speaking, we suggest that the sign will assist in creating a vibrant, busy city centre, making the area attractive to the existing retail and hospitality businesses in the area. The support structure proposed for this sign is minimal, and should be barely visible even upon close inspection. The screen will be supported by steel beams which will be painted to match the facade of the neighbouring property at 181 Victoria St. and as such we believe they will be practically invisible. ETC MEDIA, LTD 4

13 Without prejudice 1. The development shall proceed in accordance with the information and plans submitted with the application entered into the Council records as. 2. The consent shall endure so long as Etc Media (the applicant) owns/operates the sign (or words to that effect). 3. The consent shall be valid for a period no longer than two years from the date of installation. 4. No live broadcast or pre-recorded video shall be displayed on the screen. Only still images shall be displayed with a minimum duration of 8 seconds. 5. There shall be no movement or animation of the images. 6. The material displayed on the screen shall not contain any flashing images and the screen itself shall not contain any retro-reflective material. 7. There shall be no transitions between still images apart from either an immediate change, or a cross-dissolve between images of a max of 0.5 seconds. Etc Media have suggested a halfsecond cross-dissolve transition to lessen any perceived impact of the change. (Etc Media are willing to re-visit this issue within 48 hours should any unforeseen concerns come to light). 8. Any content displayed on the screen shall comply with the Advertising Standards Authority Advertising Code of Practice and the Broadcasting Act There shall be no sound associated with the screen and no sound equipment is to be installed as part of the screen. 10. The maximum Digital Sign luminance shall be 800 cd/m2 during night time operation e.g. Prior to the street lights being activated. 11. The digital LED screen shall incorporate lighting control to adjust brightness in line with ambient light levels. 12. The ratio between sign brightness and ambient light is to be determined post installation. (refers to brightness levels during hours of darkness and at dusk/low ambient light times during winter.) Connetics, Ltd have agreed to measure and advise appropriate settings. 13. Image changing during curfew hours will be limited to a minimum of 30 minutes (Refer definition of curfew hours). 14. An audit of the sign post installation will be carried out by a qualified lighting designer to ensure compliance with the above recommendations and any council guidelines. This audit is to be completed within 7 days of installation and the results forwarded to the Resource Consents Manager, Christchurch City Council. 15. Luminance readings of the sign will be taken by Connetics, Ltd. to confirm the maximum luminance levels are not being exceeded. Confirmation of this is to be forwarded to the Christchurch City Council. 16. In accordance with s.128 of the Resource Management Act 1991, the Council may review the rate of transition of the image or the use of the screen in relation to the safe and efficient use of Victoria Street and Bealey Avenue by vehicular, pedestrian and cycle traffic, by serving notice

14 on the consent holder within 48 hours at any time to address real or perceived safety issues relating to the operation of the screen. Notes: Curfew Hours will be 23:00 hrs. to 06:00 hrs. For technical details regarding Luminance and Ambient Light Levels, please see the final two pages of the Environmental Impact Assessment written by Adam Watson, Senior Design Engineer of Connetics, Ltd.

15 Without prejudice 1. The development shall proceed in accordance with the information and plans submitted with the application entered into the Council records as. 2. The consent shall endure so long as Etc Media (the applicant) owns/operates the sign (or words to that effect). 3. The consent shall be valid for a period no longer than two years from the date of installation. 4. No live broadcast or pre-recorded video shall be displayed on the screen. Only still images shall be displayed with a minimum duration of 8 seconds. 5. There shall be no movement or animation of the images. 6. The material displayed on the screen shall not contain any flashing images and the screen itself shall not contain any retro-reflective material. 7. There shall be no transitions between still images apart from either an immediate change, or a cross-dissolve between images of a max of 0.5 seconds. Etc Media have suggested a halfsecond cross-dissolve transition to lessen any perceived impact of the change. (Etc Media are willing to re-visit this issue within 48 hours should any unforeseen concerns come to light). 8. Any content displayed on the screen shall comply with the Advertising Standards Authority Advertising Code of Practice and the Broadcasting Act There shall be no sound associated with the screen and no sound equipment is to be installed as part of the screen. 10. The maximum Digital Sign luminance shall be 800 cd/m2 during night time operation e.g. Prior to the street lights being activated. 11. The digital LED screen shall incorporate lighting control to adjust brightness in line with ambient light levels. 12. The ratio between sign brightness and ambient light is to be determined post installation. (refers to brightness levels during hours of darkness and at dusk/low ambient light times during winter.) Connetics, Ltd have agreed to measure and advise appropriate settings. 13. Image changing during curfew hours will be limited to a minimum of 30 minutes (Refer definition of curfew hours). 14. An audit of the sign post installation will be carried out by a qualified lighting designer to ensure compliance with the above recommendations and any council guidelines. This audit is to be completed within 7 days of installation and the results forwarded to the Resource Consents Manager, Christchurch City Council. 15. Luminance readings of the sign will be taken by Connetics, Ltd. to confirm the maximum luminance levels are not being exceeded. Confirmation of this is to be forwarded to the Christchurch City Council. 16. In accordance with s.128 of the Resource Management Act 1991, the Council may review the rate of transition of the image or the use of the screen in relation to the safe and efficient use of Victoria Street and Bealey Avenue by vehicular, pedestrian and cycle traffic, by serving notice

16 on the consent holder within 48 hours at any time to address real or perceived safety issues relating to the operation of the screen. Notes: Curfew Hours will be 23:00 hrs. to 06:00 hrs. For technical details regarding Luminance and Ambient Light Levels, please see the final two pages of the Environmental Impact Assessment written by Adam Watson, Senior Design Engineer of Connetics, Ltd.

17 Page 1 of 2 Dale, Clare From: Mike McCaleb, ETC Media [mccaleb@etcmedia.co.nz] Sent: Tuesday, 9 December :57 AM To: Dale, Clare Subject: 183 Victoria St. Attachments: PastedGraphic-1.tiff; Billboard Structural Drawing LineTech.pdf Good morning Clare, At long last, we have a drawing from our structural engineer. Though the drawing seems simple & straightforward, I have been assured that the appropriate loadings have been calculated. (Thus the wee logo that says structural engineers ) The proposal is for two concrete power poles to be used. The poles themselves would be 600mm from the wall to their centre and 550 in diameter at the base. The face of the screen will be 1.08 from the back of the poles. (So the face is 1.325m from the wall) The poles will be painted to match the colour of the building behind. We are ordering an underground services report, but the owner & tenant reckon there s nothing on that side of the property. The screen will obscure the (un-permitted) sign on 181 Victoria St (Countrywide) We have also revised our imagery and videos to include the structure. I would like to make a time to meet with you on Thursday or Friday if possible to discuss any remaining requirements and the process and timeline towards limited notification. mm Mike McCaleb mccaleb@etcmedia.co.nz /01/2015

18 8217mm 8217mm 4 x 8 grid of screens (1024 x 1024mm) 4096mm Concrete power line poles 8800mm Elevation Plan

19 30 May 2014 Mike McCaleb Director ETC Media P.O Box Barrington Christchurch ASSESSMENT BRIEF RE: Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed digital sign 181 Victoria St, Christchurch Dear Mike, Thank you for inviting us to assess the environmental impact of the proposed digital sign to be installed at the above location. A day time site visit was made on the 14 th May 2014 & a night time site visit on the 20 th May 2014 Extent of assessment: Day time viewing points set at three locations as marked on the attached drawing Night time luminance readings taken at three points as marked on the attached drawing Study into type and style of sign (based on preliminary information provided by ETC Media) Review and discussions of local council guidelines and standards If you have any queries regarding this assessment please call me on (03) or me on watsona@connetics.co.nz Yours Sincerely, Adam Watson Senior Design Engineer Page 1

20 Connetics Ltd Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed digital sign -181 Victoria St, Christchurch 2.0 SCOPE OF WORK. This document is to be included in a Resource Consent Proposal for the placement of a (temporary months) digital sign, approximately 3.84 m x 7.68 m in size, at 181 Victoria St Christchurch. It is the intention of the report to highlight the environmental impact of light pollution from the proposed sign predominantly during hours of darkness and times of low levels of ambient light. The sign is to have eight messages rotated every six seconds, with a 1/3 of one second cross fade. As the proposed digital sign is not installed at the above or any other location, a full environmental impact study could not be undertaken. An assessment of the proposed location was completed with a day time and night time visit of the site on the (daytime) and the (night time). The visit included, taking luminance readings from existing equipment and street lights in and around the area. A review of the location of the proposed sign was also carried out to determine the potential impact to local building occupants and motorists. Further to this, a review of the preliminary technical information (based on preliminary information provided by ETC Media) was undertaken to look at the technical aspects of the proposed digital sign. The data was then compared to local council guidelines and standards to assess the suitability/compliance. 3.0 DESIGN OBSERVATIONS The proposed digital sign is intended to be placed in place of the Country wide sign that is currently located at 181 Victoria St Christchurch Below image of existing location at 181 Victoria St Christchurch Page 2 30 May 2014

21 Connetics Ltd Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed digital sign -181 Victoria St, Christchurch Below image of proposed sign with sample image at 181 Victoria St Christchurch 3.1 Existing Lighting and Signage A daytime and night time assessment of the site was undertaken to get a feel for the location and determine the current impact of the luminaires and light emitting equipment. The table below outlines results from the luminance readings taken at night on the Luminance Readings Reading Location Luminance Source Luminance Comment LR1 SL cd Through street light lens LR1 SL cd Through street light lens LR1 SL cd Through street light lens LR1 Country Wide sign 100 cd To RHS LR1 Country Wide sign 20 cd Centre LR2 Carlton Hotel Sign 250 cd Centre LR3 Tudor Sign 60 cd Centre LR3 SL cd Through street light lens LR4 SL cd Point source reading Page 3 30 May 2014

22 Connetics Ltd Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed digital sign -181 Victoria St, Christchurch Digital Sign Technical Data The following is a general outline of the proposed signs technical parameters and overall size. The digital sign is to be 3.84 m x 7.68 m and mounted at approximately 9m above road level with the main viewing point for drivers travelling south on Papanui Rd as they approach the Bealey Ave intersection. The proposed sign is able to produce maximum brightness of up to 10,000 cd (fully white sign) and the sign is to have lighting control to adjust brightness to ambient light conditions. The images are to be static images with six second intervals that fade from one to the other within 1/3 of one second. 4.0 ASSESSMENT ASSUMPTIONS There is not currently a New Zealand standard that covers the effects of obtrusive light; however, Auckland Transport (Auckland City Council) has a document, Signage Bylaws 2014 (in draft) that covers static illuminated signs which we have used as a reference document. It is common practise to use the Australian standard Control of the obtrusive effects of outdoor lighting also as a guide, however this document refers to luminaires rather than signs. Christchurch City Council does not have any specific guidelines in their city plan that refers to obtrusive light in respect to this proposal. Nor do they have any specific requirements in respect to curfew hours. 4.1 Auckland Council Signage Bylaws 2014 (draft) Table 1.1 Maximum luminance (cd/m²) of illuminated signage Illuminated area (m²) Areas with street lighting Areas without street lighting Up to and including Over 0.5 up to and including 2.0 Over 2.0 up to and including 5.0 Over 5.0 up to and including 10 Over Static illuminated signage (1) A person must not without the approval of the council or Auckland Transport display any static illuminated signage on or visible from a road or public place that does not: (a) (b) comply with the requirements for illumination and glare in the Traffic Control Devices Manual Part 3 Advertising Signs; is upwardly facing unless adequately shielded so that glare does not extend beyond the signage and its immediate surround; (c) exceed the maximum luminance in accordance with the Table 1.1 in Schedule 1 of this bylaw. Page 4 30 May 2014

23 Connetics Ltd Environmental Impact Assessment Proposed digital sign -181 Victoria St, Christchurch 4.2 Other standards and recommendations The Australian obtrusive light standard (AS ) notes that it does not apply to internally illuminated signs in section 1.1. Although the standard excludes these types of signs it does not preclude them from being assessed on their contribution to obtrusive light. 5.0 CONCLUSION The proposed location of the digital sign is in a busy part of Christchurch CBD and would not be considered as a residential area. The intersection is currently lit to a high vehicular road lighting subcategory V2, so the immediate area and surrounds appear very bright to motorists and commercial businesses. The proposed location is not in the direct line of sight of motorist, as it is intended to be mounted at approximately 9m from bottom of sign to road level where the current Countrywide sign is positioned (refer picture page 2). There are motels within close proximity of the proposed location, so care will need to be taken to not affect sleeping patterns of the motel residents during curfew hours 5.1 Assessment The following recommendations outline what we consider should be undertaken to ensure minimal impact on drivers and local residences. Digital sign luminance maximums to be in line with Auckland Transport Signage Bylaws (draft) document. Refer table 1.1 in section 4.1 of this report. A maximum luminance of 800 cd/m2 during night time operation e.g. Prior to the street lights being activated Digital LED sign to have lighting control to adjust brightness in line with the ambient light level. Ratio between sign brightness and ambient light to be determined post this report. (refers to brightness levels during hours of darkness and at dusk/low ambient light times during winter) Image changing should be extended to 30 min during curfew hours due to proximity of motels to intersection and reduce interruption to occupants sleeping Image displayed should not change without cross fade during pre-curfew hours Digital sign to have fault detection that results in sign defaulting to screen brightness equal too or less than 500 cd Digital sign to be equipped with control equipment to adjust the brightness should an unforseen complaint arise regarding the brightness An audit of the site post installation should be carried out by a qualified lighting designer to ensure compliance with the above recommendations and council guidelines Luminance readings of the sign to be taken to confirm maximum luminance levels are not being exceeded Curfew hours and allowable operating times to be provided by Christchurch City Council. Suggested time for curfew hours to be 2300 hrs hrs. Note: It is our understanding that ETC Media will purchase a product that will have the ability to meet the above criteria and undertake an audit post installation, to confirm and maintain compliance with local standards and guidelines as listed in this report. Page 5 30 May 2014

24 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Transportation Assessment May 2014 TDG Ref: Victoria St Signage.docx

25 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Traffic Assessment Report Quality Assurance Statement Prepared by: Grant Smith Principal Consultant Reviewed by: Andrew Metherell Associate Approved for Issue by: Grant Smith Principal Consultant Status: Final Report Date: 27 May 2014 PO Box 8615, Riccarton 8440 New Zealand P: Victoria St Signage.docx

26 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Transportation Assessment Report Page 1 1. Introduction Etcmedia are proposing to erect an 8m by 4m changing image billboard on the northern face of the building at 181 Victoria Street. The location of the sign with respect to the adjacent transport network is shown on Figure 1. The Billboard is proposed to replace the existing Countrywide sign on the top storey of the building, as shown on Figure 2. As the sign size does not satisfy City Plan signage standards, an assessment of transportation effects is necessary. Bealey Ave 181 Victoria St Figure 1: Aerial Photograph Showing Location of Proposed Sign Figure 2: Location of Proposed Sign The displayed images will be static that is there will not be animation, flashing, scrolling or video. There will be a total of eight displays at six second intervals meaning a full rotation will take 48 seconds. If, following installation this proves to be too short a time, then it can be reviewed and easily changed Victoria St Signage.docx

27 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Transportation Assessment Report Page 2 The bottom of the sign will be 9m above ground, extending to 13m at the top. The edge of the sign is positioned approximately 3m from the road boundary. The sign will be directly visible by traffic travelling south on Papanui Road, and in the side vision of traffic travelling east on Bealey Avenue once past Knox Church. It will also be visible for traffic travelling west on Bealey Ave outside the Carlton hotel, but to some extent that view will be obscured by trees. In traffic terms, there are two issues requiring assessment. Firstly, will the sign be a distraction to drivers, and secondly, would signal heads be in such a position that they would blend in to the sign and become part of it, thereby becoming ineffective as signals? These two matters are analysed within this report against the assessment matters in the City Plan Victoria St Signage.docx

28 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Transportation Assessment Report Page 3 2. Assessment Matters The Resource Consent Application is for a non complying activity, and accordingly the Assessment matters in Volume 3 Part 10 clause come into play. Those relevant to traffic are: (b) Building identification outdoor advertisement (ii) Distraction to motorists in their observance of traffic conditions, directions or controls (c) Height (v) The potential for the outdoor advertisement to district driver's attention from traffic signs or controls in the vicinity. (d) Illumination (iv) The proximity of any traffic signals or controls and whether such display would be likely to distract driver s attention. (e) Moving, flashing or retro reflective displays (ii) Distraction to motorists in their observance of traffic conditions, directions or controls (k) Traffic safety (iii) Whether the sign has any potential to cause distraction, or confusion to motorists and/or adversely affect traffic safety due to its location, visibility, and/or content including size of lettering, symbols or other graphics. As noted above, these matters condense into two issues. Firstly, will the sign distract drivers, and secondly will the sign hide the traffic signal heads which are the main traffic control in the vicinity of the site Victoria St Signage.docx

29 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Transportation Assessment Report Page 4 3. Signal Head Position The only approach to the intersection where the signal head might be in the line of sight of a driver is south bound on Papanui Road. However, in this case, the geometry of the intersection and position of the signal heads means this will not occur. The position of signal heads on the approach to the intersection is demonstrated in the screen shot from Google street view. The camera position is about 50m from the limit line, and the sign would be a little over 100 m away. The photo is a little old, and the sign is proposed on the grey area above the white building. Photograph 1: Papanui Road approach to Bealey Avenue The main signal head for a driver approaching the intersection is the overhead primary signal above the through lane. The approach is on an angle, and therefore the signal head can never be between the driver and the sign. The primary signal head beneath the shop balcony similarly can also never be in the line of sight. The signal heads on the opposite side of the intersection provide the main function when moving away from the intersection and manoeuvring. As shown in Photograph 2, the secondary head on the far right side of the intersection is also too low to be in the line of sight. The tertiary head on the left side is not in the line of sight of the building Victoria St Signage.docx

30 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Transportation Assessment Report Page 5 Photograph 2: At the Papanui Road approach to Bealey Avenue Victoria St Signage.docx

31 Etcmedia Victoria Street Signage Transportation Assessment Report Page 6 4. Driver Distraction This issue is more difficult to address and to a large extent becomes subjective. The five assessment matters are covered below: (b) (c) (d) (e) (k) Building identification outdoor advertisement Height Illumination Moving, flashing or retro reflective displays Traffic safety The location of the sign on the side of the building and the distance from Bealey Ave, and Papanui Road (some 40 m from the eastbound lanes of Bealey Ave, and 60m from the limit lines on Papanui Road) means that it is most unlikely to distract drivers. There is an existing static sign on the building, and while the proposed sign will be coloured (as opposed to the existing monochrome sign) it will also be static except for the change every six seconds. There will be no moving flashing or retro reflective displays, and illumination will be automatically controlled. Interestingly, the sign does not become visible when driving south on Papanui Road until the car is past Derby Street as it is obscured by the petrol station signage and in part by the Carlton. The height is such that the sign ceases to be visible once through the intersection. A review has also been undertaken of this proposal against the NZTA technical requirements for a sign, as outlined in the brochure State Highways advertising signs available on the NZTA website. The brochure is a distillation from the NZTA publication Traffic control devices manual Part 3 advertising signs. The requirements typically relate to the sign design itself, and its location. Those relating to the sign are sensible, and are likely to be a natural part of good signage design in any event. The one exception is the requirement: Signs should not use reflective materials, internal or external illumination, or variable flashing rotating or animated parts. That requirement is clearly aimed at signs which would be at the driver s eye level. They need to be non reflective so that car headlights do not reflect off them, the illumination requirement is not applicable in an urban area and indeed the manual has a section on illumination and maximum luminance that the billboard will need to conform to. The flashing, rotating or animated parts are to prevent driver distraction. While the proposed sign will be illuminated it will not be unreasonably bright and will not have flashing or animated parts. The sign location requirements are also sensible, but relate to low signs where at street level there is a more cluttered visual environment. These requirements are not relevant to this proposed sign which is high up on a building Victoria St Signage.docx