It may be a $380k cash cow. But is Sydney's biggest billboard also an eyesore?
Eye Drive Sydney, a subsidiary of outdoor advertiser oOh!media, is seeking approval from the NSW government to extend the life of the 170 metre-long billboard on the Glebe Island silos, overlooking Anzac Bridge.
The billboard – which thousands of motorists pass each day – was erected in the 1990s as a temporary structure to promote the Sydney Olympics. However, over the years, rolling extensions have kept it in place.
Now Eye Drive Sydney has applied to the Planning Department to continue operating the billboard for another three years, saying an extension will 'reinforce the landmark quality of the silos structure'.
The move has sparked resistance among residents, community groups and the City of Sydney Council, which has called for the billboard to be removed.
If Eye Drive Sydney gains the extension, it has offered to pay Inner West Council $127,000 a year in a 'public benefit' deal that could be used to produce 'socio-economic benefits'.
In a submission to the department, Inner West Council has not opposed the extension and said it 'does not anticipate any adverse impacts' if the approval is granted.
The council's position puts it at odds with the City of Sydney Council, which has called for the billboard to be removed.
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