Visual pollution? Vancouver mulls future of floating billboards

Tempers flared after Burke Billboards started cruising around False Creek with a massive floating advertisement. (Burke Billboards)

Vancouver residents have called them an eyesore and visual pollution.

In response, the city will hold a public hearing today over floating billboards in prominent waterways like English Bay and False Creek.

Council will hear from people who oppose and support the advertisements, such as a 12-metre wide illuminated billboard stationed on a vessel in March.

Patsy McMillan, chair of the False Creek Residents Association, says only people who stand to profit from the ads are expected to speak in favour.