Casuarinas may go for bike path

Several casuarina trees may be removed from the Woy Woy foreshore to make way for a cycle and pedestrian path, according to a recent Gosford Council report.

However, the number to be removed has been reduced following comments from council's Tree Management Officer.

The officer stated that the trees were "generally in good condition" and would be classified as "trees of particular merit or significance that warrant great effort to retain".

The officer stated that there was only one casuarina tree on the foreshore reserve at the rear of 142 North Burge Rd, which would be classified as a tree that required removal due to decline through disease or poor conditions.

"This would be the only tree that would warrant removal," the officer stated.

"The proposal should address the alignment of the path being constructed around the trees that are proposed to be removed, so these trees can be retained and not to disturb or damage the root systems."

Council officers stated that, in response to the concerns, the application had been amended to realign sections of the path to allow for the established casuarina trees to be retained.

"The amended path is consistent with the natural unformed foot track which runs through these trees."

Submissions to council had noted concern about the removal of the trees.

One submission stated that the casuarina trees were "the only stand of its kind along the waterfront for the entire length of the proposed pathway".

Council officers stated that the application had subsequently been amended to relocate the pathway in this location to retain most of the trees.

Council officers stated that: "Overall, the proposal attempts to retain as many existing trees as possible whilst addressing the design standards for pathways and cycleways".

"The route and location above ground level of the pathway deliberately tries to avoid many of the trees and their root systems.

"It is also suggested that for each existing tree removed, a replacement is provided of a similar species and planted in a convenient location adjoining the pathway in the vicinity of the original.

"Additional planting may be considered at the request of the adjoining landowners."

Council agenda ENV.56, 7 Aug 2007