Both old and new trees needed, says GUST

The community must demand both new trees and the retention of older trees where possible, according to the local Grow Urban Shade Trees group.

The group made the call after it discovered that new advanced trees planted at a development in Webb Rd, Booker Bay, were replacements for "two healthy established coastal banksia".

"Replacing trees felled for new buildings is council policy but it takes community pressure to ensure it happens," said group member Ms Jenny Wilder.

"While we are thrilled about the replacement trees, the loss of the two original banksia is thought-provoking.

"One was on the boundary and could surely have formed valuable amenity for this building.

"These were shade and habitat trees with many years of life still in them.

"This case just highlights the dynamics of the ongoing struggle between state government density targets and the liveability of the suburbs consequently created.

"Perhaps thanks to the submissions of concerned residents, at least we now have replacement trees at this location.

"Emails and submissions to council can make a difference, even if sometimes it feels like they aren't listening.

"It's your neighbourhood and it's important to speak up."

SOURCE:

Social media, 19 Dec 2020

Jenny Wilder, Grow Urban Street Trees