Should Wagga's CBD be smoke-free?

10 August 2015

For immediate release

Should Wagga’s CBD be smoke-free?

Wagga Wagga City Council is calling on members of the community to have a say on a proposal to implement a 12 month trial for a smoke-free area within Wagga Wagga's CBD.

The proposed trial is to prohibit smoking in Baylis Street, Fitzmaurice Street and in Forsyth Street (between Berry Street and Peter Street).

The smoke-free area would be in addition to state legislation that prohibits smoking in alfresco dining areas, and Council’s existing policy that prohibits smoking within ten metres of the entrance to all Wagga Wagga City Council buildings.

The Director of Planning and Regulatory Services, Andrew Crakanthorp, says it is important that Council hears from the broader community.

“The streets identified for the proposed smoke-free areas are within the City’s busiest shopping precinct,” he said.

“We want to hear from everyone that uses it to make sure that we can come up with the best outcome for the community.”

Residents can join the conversation and share their view on the website: wagga.nsw.gov.au/smokefree or by calling 1300 292 442.

The consultation process follows a Council resolution in July to place on public exhibition its intention to introduce a 12 month smoke-free trial within in the CBD.

A further report will be presented to Council's October 2015 Policy and Strategy Committee Meeting.

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Contact Lauren Fitzgerald 69 269 197 / 0409 079 663 or media@wagga.nsw.gov.au or follow us on Twitter - @WaggaCouncil