Following a health and hazard assessment from an arborist, 19 trees along Monash Drive will begin being removed for safety measures, from week commencing Monday, 30 August.
The trees, have been recommended for removal; with the arborist identifying the trees have surpassed their limit of safety.
Council’s Director Development and Planning Heather Green said it was disappointing that the trees have to be removed.
“Council looked at ways it could keep the trees however, the arborist’s report made it clear that the trees pose a danger and must be removed.
“I appreciate that there will also be widespread disappointment among the community to see these established trees go.
“We understand the importance of trees to the amenity of our towns, and do not make the decision to remove them lightly,” Ms Green added.
Ms Green said that the safety of pedestrians, visitors, volunteers and staff at the Pioneer Settlement and the surrounding precinct is our number one priority and is at the forefront of this decision.
“Limbs have fallen from the trees, including a limb which fell across the road a short time ago. Therefore, as per the arborist’s recommendations and for the safety of our community, the trees will be removed,” she said.
Ms Green added that carefully considered plantings appropriately selected and spaced will replace the trees, improving the amenity of the precinct for many years to come.
“Council is also exploring options that will see the timber from the trees re-purposed in some capacity by the Pioneer Settlement where possible.
Arboricultural Assessment and Report (pdf 955kb)
