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Inappropriate street tree program to continue

Latrobe City Council has endorsed the continuation of the Inappropriate Street Tree Removal and Replacement program for the next three years. Since its inception in 2005, the program has seen the removal of 4500 inappropriate trees.

By Portal Admin - 22nd February 2017 - Back to News

Latrobe City Council’s mayor, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan, said the results of the program to date had been outstanding.

"Removing street trees that are simply not the right species for the environment has resulted in significantly fewer customer complaints, a reduction in insurance claims and lower risk factors for the general public and for workers operating around power lines.

"Continuing the program until the end of the 2018/19 financial year will mean we can complete the works needed to ensure that only appropriate trees are planted in urban streetscapes," Cr O’Callaghan said.

Inappropriate trees are those deemed to be poorly located, allergenic or known to be susceptible to disease. Residents are notified of potential removals and if the majority of residents object, the trees will not be removed.

"The list of replacement trees is varied and includes both exotics and natives.

Residents in streets where trees are being removed are offered a choice of replacement species. Choosing the most suitable trees not only removes risks to people and infrastructure, but can beautify the streetscape for the long-term," Cr O’Callaghan concluded.

Media Enquiries:

Cr Kellie O’Callaghan, Latrobe City Mayor

Telephone: 0400 696 324

Cr Graeme Middlemiss, Latrobe City Deputy Mayor

Telephone: 0417 379 059

Media Relations Office

Telephone: 5128 5458

For general enquiries, contact Latrobe City Council on 1300 367 700.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: support@gippsland.com