Stage one of the action plan covered urgent remedial works to three trees which included clearing the canopies from powerlines, removing overhanging branches and managing the growth of the trees.
Stage two works, which took place in August 2018, included the removal of twelve trees, located in Hamilton Place, Kennedy Street, Lonsdale Street and Cox Street. These trees were recommended for removal in the arborist report due to their poor to very poor condition.
Stage three, due to commence on 15 April, will see the pruning of 108 plane trees across the CBD. Contractors are being engaged to undertake the pruning works which will take place on trees in Lonsdale Street, Gray Street, French Street, Kennedy Street, Thompson Street and Brown Street.
Council’s Director Infrastructure David Moloney said Council will take steps to reduce the inconvenience to businesses, foot traffic and motorists during the long-awaited works.
“Traffic management will be in place on CBD streets as the trimming takes place, however we will aim to have contractors working from parking bays to minimise traffic disruption. Foot traffic may be re-directed at times as required and we ask pedestrians to please comply with signage for their own safety.
“We will have two contractors working at the same time on different streets, which will mean the work should hopefully be completed within two weeks, weather permitting.
“We appreciate the patience of the community while we undertake these important works,” Mr Moloney concluded.
The full arborist report is available on Council’s website.
The fourth and final stage of the action plan involves the large Blue Gum tree on Lonsdale Street, identified as being near the end of its useful life in the Homewood Consulting arborists report. Council resolved to remove the tree in 2018, based on the advice received and the appropriate permits for the removal are now being sought. Further information will be provided prior to this work taking place.