Latest news with #Council
Scoop
24 minutes ago
- Business
- Scoop
Marlborough Council Spends Almost $1.8m On Central Blenheim Site
The Marlborough District Council has bought land beside its new Blenheim library and art gallery, earmarking it as a future space for community activities. Located between High St and Wynen St, the land is made up of five freehold titles with a total area of 1147m². The council paid $1,787,500 for the site. Mayor Nadine Taylor said the opportunity to buy the site in such a community-focused part of town was one that the council 'could not afford to miss'. 'This purchase is about future-proofing a vital part of Blenheim's town centre for future development opportunities. "The site is next to an iconic council asset – Te Kahu o Waipuna – a special building which has quickly established itself as a hub for our community,' she said. 'Council has decided to secure the site to ensure what is developed is complementary to our library and art gallery, [and] adds value to our CBD and to our community at large.' The site had been largely empty since the City Hotel building, built in the early 1900s, was demolished in 2014. While the council had no immediate plans for the area, Taylor said the purchase would open up a conversation on the future of central Blenheim. 'We [will] explore options for the best long-term use of this site. We are keen to get the community's input and this will happen as part of council's planning processes.' Group manager property and community facilities Jamie Lyall said the council bought the site for within 10% its valuation and would pay for it with a loan from existing budgets for the first year. 'This purchase shows [the] council is prepared to invest in the future of the Blenheim CBD. We know there are challenges out there for our retail sector and that the town centre has been changing over time,' Lyall said. 'Step one is to secure the site so we can then consider all future options for it and engage with the public to have their say about its longer term use. 'We have had numerous approaches to council with ideas for developments in the centre of town including parking, apartments and pocket parks.' The site's zoning had no restrictions on the type of development, and a permitted building height of up to 20m.
South Wales Argus
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Tredegar House to host Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2027
The 17th Century house has been called home to some of the most powerful and influential families in the area, with its stunning 90-acre grounds making it a perfect site for the Eisteddfod. Llio Maddocks, the Urdd's Art and Eisteddfod Director says: 'I am so pleased to see Newport City Council and the whole of Gwent community's support to hosting the Eisteddfod in 2027. "Tredegar House looks like the perfect site for us organisers. One of the most important elements of Eisteddfod yr Urdd is the fact that it's a travelling festival and therefore visit areas that have never hosted the festival before. "I very much look forward to working with the Council and local community over the next two years to provide valuable experiences for children and young people of the area.' 'We are delighted that Tredegar House has been confirmed as the venue for Eisteddfod yr Urdd's first ever visit to Newport in 2027', said Councillor Emma Corten, Newport City Council's cabinet member for culture and communications. 'Hosting more major events and increasing the use of Welsh in our cultural offer are both parts of our long-term cultural strategy for the city. Eisteddfod yr Urdd, one of Wales's largest cultural events, will help us as we work to deliver on both of those goals. 'We're keen to involve as many businesses and community groups, both in the city centre and across Newport, as possible in the celebrations, so that as many people as possible experience the buzz of a major cultural event. We cannot wait for our city to play host to visitors from across Wales and beyond in two years' time.' Lizzie Smith Jones, National Trust Cymru General Manager for Tredegar House said: 'We're incredibly proud to be welcoming Eisteddfod yr Urdd to Tredegar House and parkland in 2027. It's a huge moment for Newport and our community - we're looking forward to playing our part in the celebrations of Welsh language, culture and creativity, and championing Wales' future generations.'
Daily Express
2 hours ago
- General
- Daily Express
Council reminded of role on environment issues
Published on: Saturday, May 31, 2025 Published on: Sat, May 31, 2025 Text Size: Liew (centre) chairing the first meeting of the MPASS for the year 2025. Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Environment Protection Council (MPASS) was reminded about its important role in advising the Sabah Government on matters pertaining to the implementation of the Environment Protection Enactment 2002 as well as on matters related to environmental management in the State. MPASS Chairman Datuk Seri Christina Liew gave the reminder in her opening speech when the Council convened its first meeting for the current year on Tuesday at the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry's Conference Room. Liew, who is also State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, presided at the meeting, attended by members of the Council, comprising senior officers from both State and Federal Government agencies. 'The Council must take a serious view of environmental issues in line with our commitment to ensuring sustainable environmental governance in line with the Sabah State Environmental Policy 2017. This Policy outlines 83 strategies based on five key areas, namely land, air, water, biodiversity and social dimension,' she said. The Minister expressed appreciation for the views and inputs contributed by the Council members, emphasising the importance of continuous cooperation in ensuring Sabah's environment remains clean, healthy and safe. Liew raised concerns over environmental impacts from hillside clearing activities and the improper management of solid waste, among other relevant issues. 'These issues require close collaboration among regulatory agencies,' she asserted. Advertisement In this respect, the Council meeting agreed that follow-up discussions between technical departments/agencies should be held to discuss this matter further. Two discussion papers were presented by the Environment Protection Department (EPD) - the Study on Environmental Education Materials and Policy Implementation, and the Study on Water Quality Management Plan for the Sungai Inanam Catchment, Kota Kinabalu. Outputs of the studies, namely the environmental awareness modules, best practices of environmental education document and board games, will be distributed by EPD to stakeholders as reference and guidance. Additionally, it was decided that the recommendations from the water quality studies in Sungai Inanam will be adopted by relevant departments to prevent pollution and manage the water quality in that particular river. Among those present were the Ministry's Deputy Permanent Secretary I Mary Malangking, Secretary of Natural Resources Office Sernam Singh, Deputy Director of EPD Daisy Aloysius, Deputy Director of Drainage and Irrigation Department Miklin Ationg, and Deputy Director of Department of Environment (Sabah), Yaras Yurus. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Dubai Eye
4 hours ago
- Business
- Dubai Eye
UAE introduces regulations on social media advertising under new system
Individuals advertising on social media will need to follow new rules under the UAE Media Council's latest comprehensive system that aims to "build public trust, protect audiences and improve the quality of online media content". That's according to an announcement from the UAE Media Council, which said it will also offer support to content creators through a three-year exemption from permit fees. The system aims to regulate, empower and stimulate growth in the media sector and builds on the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation - issued last year. The Council will also implement an age rating system to ensure children and adolescents don't see "inappropriate" content. A new policy for licencing digital news platforms is also being developed that will establish "guidelines to enhance credibility, ensure adherence to journalistic standards, and promote responsible practices within a balanced legal framework". Those who caught violating the regulations could face warnings and fines of up to Dh1 million. With penalties doubled to Dh2 million for repeated violations. Additionally, temporary closure of up to six months or permanent closure may be enforced, along with the revocation of licences or permits. "The new system transforms the way the media sector is regulated and developed, as it combines updated legislation, comprehensive media services, and policies covering various sectors to enhance efficiency and sustainable growth," highlighted Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council. In addition, it emphasises resolutions on media service fees, violations and administrative penalties. The system is also prioritising Emirati talent and creative projects within the national media strategy, with fee exemptions for several media services to support local producers, writers and creatives, encouraging content that reflects national identity.
Gulf Today
4 hours ago
- Politics
- Gulf Today
UAE reveals 20 binding standards for media content with fines of up to Dhs2 million
The UAE Media Council has announced 20 comprehensive and binding standards for all media institutions and professionals regarding content circulated across various media platforms. These standards aim to ensure that content aligns with the country's values and supreme interests, in accordance with Media Law No. 55 of 2023 and its executive regulations. The Council stressed that all media content must demonstrate full respect for the Divine Being, Islamic beliefs, and other Abrahamic religions, and must not offend any of them in any way. It also emphasized the importance of respecting the country's system of government, national symbols, and institutions, while safeguarding the nation's supreme interests and social cohesion. Respecting the UAE's official domestic and foreign policies is a fundamental principle that the media must uphold. Consequently, the Council prohibits the publication or broadcast of any material that could harm the country's foreign relations or negatively affect its international reputation. The Council also highlighted the need to preserve cultural and civilizational heritage, respect national identity, and avoid content that threatens the unity or cohesion of society. It explicitly warned against promoting sectarian, tribal, or regional divisions, and against inciting hatred, violence, or terrorism, as well as spreading discord and animosity. Furthermore, media content must reflect the moral values of society and serve the public interest without violating societal norms. The publication of content that disrespects the legal, economic, judicial, or security systems is strictly prohibited. In line with efforts to protect personal privacy, the Council emphasized the importance of respecting individuals' privacy and avoiding any violation of personal matters. It banned the publication or dissemination of material that incites criminal behavior, including murder, rape, or the use of drugs or psychotropic substances. Content that violates public decency, offends youth, or promotes subversive ideologies is also forbidden. Publishing false news, forged documents, or falsely attributing information to individuals or entities is strictly prohibited. The Council also bans content that could harm the national currency, negatively impact the economy, or spread rumors and misinformation. Media outlets must not glorify or promote groups with political, social, ideological, or ethnic agendas hostile to the state. Careful selection of guests and participants in media programs is required to ensure adherence to professional standards and avoid compromising public policy. Regarding advertisements, the Council stated that content must respect the UAE's culture, identity, and values. Advertisements must also comply with age classifications set by the Council and safeguard children's rights, protecting them from harmful content in accordance with national laws. In cases of violations, the Council will take appropriate action, beginning with an official warning. Fines may be imposed, reaching up to Dhs 1 million. Repeat violations within one year may result in doubled fines, up to Dhs 2 million. Additional penalties may include temporary administrative closure (not exceeding six months), permanent closure, or revocation of licenses or permits—depending on the severity and impact of the violation on society and the state. Media Content Standards 1 - Respecting the Divine Entity, Islamic beliefs, monotheistic religions, and other beliefs, and not offending any of them. 2 - Respecting the State's governance system, its symbols and institutions, and the highest interests of the State and society. 3 - Respecting the State's orientation and policy at the internal and international levels. 4 - Avoiding to address to anything that might harm the State's foreign relations. 5 - Respecting the cultural and civilisational heritage and national identity of the UAE. 6 - Not to publish or circulate anything that harms national unity and social cohesion. 7 - Not to raise sectarian, regional, or tribal strife, not to incite violence, hatred, and terrorist acts, and not to incite hatred and spread a spirit of discord in society. 8 - Not to offend the prevailing values in society and observing the requirements of the public interest. 9 - Not to offend the legal, economic, judicial and security system in the UAE. 10 - Respecting the rules of privacy and everything related to the private lives of individuals. 11 - Not to publish or circulate anything that might incite the commission of crimes or encourage murder, rape, or the use of drugs or psychotropic substances. 12 - Not to publish, broadcast, or circulate phrases, pictures, drawings, or opinions that violate public morals, offend young people, or call for embracing or promoting subversive ideas. 13 - Not to publish, broadcast, or circulate false news, forged papers, or those incorrectly attributed to entities or persons. 14 - Not to publish, broadcast or circulate anything that might harm the national currency or the economic situation in the State. 15 - Not to spread rumours and misleading news. 16 - Not to glorify groups with destructive political, ethnic, economic, ideological, or social tendencies that are adverse to the UAE or that serve their own interests. 17 - Select appropriate individuals when hosting or accepting contributions thereof in the media. 18 - The content of the advertisement shall respect the culture, identity, and values of the UAE. 19 - Take into account the Age Rating System of artistic works approved by the UAE Media Council. 20 - Respect children rights in accordance with the legislation applicable within the UAE. As per the decree, all media individuals and institutions operating in the UAE are required to comply with the national standards for media content. Violating the provisions of this decree-law may lead to administrative fines, closure of the media institution or cancellation of the media licence/permit.
