Mature pine tree needs to be removed for safety reasons

– City of Ballarat Director of Infrastructure and Environment Terry Demeo

The City of Ballarat is currently removing a mature pine tree located next to the Adventure Playground on Wendouree Parade.

Proactive inspections have previously been completed in accordance with the City of Ballarat’s Tree Management Plan.

Following a request from a concerned resident, a recent inspection by a City of Ballarat arborist showed there was a risk to the public and the decision was made to remove the tree immediately.

Contractors started removal of the tree on Thursday and it is expected full removal and site reinstatement will be completed by early next week.

Two mature trees are being sourced to replant back into the area once the removal process is completed.

The City of Ballarat’s Tree Management Plan has been developed to provide a defined, consistent approach to management of tree assets and issues, assists staff to determine priorities for tree programs and works, and supports Council’s strategic focus on adopting an urban forest management approach and achieving a 40% canopy cover by 2040.

The Tree Management Plan provides principles for how the City of Ballarat addresses tree management, risk identification and mitigation, tree inspections and assessments, tree selection and planting, tree removal, tree protection, infrastructure protection, electric line clearance and tree maintenance.

/Public Release. View in full here.