State of town signs irks Waihemo board

They are only a couple of signs but they have been labelled embarrassing and shameful by those in charge in East Otago.

The township signs have come under some heavy fire by the Waihemo Community Board, which wants rid of them, such is their current appearance.

In a submission to the Waitaki District Council annual plan, the board does not hold back in its criticism of the signs.

The board wants to see the entrance to each township in East Otago enhanced with new entrance signs that will contribute visually to the visitor and residential experience.

The towns identified are Palmerston, Hampden, Macraes, Dunback, Flag Swamp and Moeraki.

"Board members are extremely embarrassed and ashamed with the current entrance signage in Palmerston and Hampden. Both signs are not readable for the motorist and are in a very shoddy condition; they are not promoting the townships at all," the submission said.

"In Palmerston, the poor township signage is the No 1 complaint that board members receive from ratepayers."

The board wants the entranceway signs in Palmerston and Hampden taken down immediately before new ones are completed.

In 2021, the council agreed and allocated $20,000 for signs in the township in its long term plan from years 1-5.

In a letter dated July, 2021, the council agreed the signs for Palmerston and other Waihemo signs needed a lift.

Council hearings are set to take place next week.