Edward River Council is undertaking a consultation process with Council's Open Space Team and nearby property owners regarding the appropriate replacement of two mature Plane trees at the Wellington Street end of End Street.
The decision follows a thorough investigation by an independent arborist recommending the removal of the trees due to concerns over their size and impact on nearby buildings.
Interim Chief Executive Officer, Gary Arnold, explained that this decision has not been made lightly, "No one at Council wishes to remove these trees, as they provide important shade and contribute positively to the streetscape," Mr. Arnold said.
"However, if an independent arborist report clearly identifies the risks posed by these trees, Council would be negligent not to act. Ignoring the findings could result in potential harm to residents or damage to nearby properties."
The investigation followed replacement of infrastructure damaged by the trees. It also highlighted the potential for damage to occur to buildings on adjoining properties; and under the Council's Street Tree Policy this situation warrants immediate action.
Council will remove the Plane trees and replace them with a more suitable species that will better fit the area's constraints, including proximity to nearby buildings. These will be carefully selected to ensure they are appropriate for the location and provide ongoing environmental and aesthetic benefits to the streetscape.
Council has already received several concerns from the community regarding the trees, and the consultation process will seek feedback from affected residents and property owners to ensure the new tree planting addresses any concerns.
"We understand that these trees have been part of the landscape for many years and are valued by the community," Mr. Arnold said. "However, our responsibility is to balance the preservation of green spaces with the safety and wellbeing of the community. We are committed to ensuring that the new trees will continue to enhance the area, while also addressing the concerns raised by property owners."
