Power line tree-trimming trial starts on Peninsula
The Peninsula is part of a power line tree-trimming trial of "contestable vegetation management ".
The year-long trial by Ausgrid which started on 15 March allows residents to ask for sensitive tree lopping near power lines.
The requests must be put through Central Coast Council.
"We understand the importance of trees in our communities and the value our customers place on trees in their local street," said Ausgrid media officer Ms Elise Barker.
"To help improve our services we regularly talk to customers and councils to help develop a shared understanding about how to manage trees growing under powerlines, and improve the way tree trimming is performed.
"The trial will allow Councils to directly engage accredited and authorised Contestable Vegetation Management companies to complete contestable vegetation works near Ausgrid's low voltage overhead network.
"This trial is expected to bring significant efficiencies and potential cost savings to councils and residents."
Ms Barker said: "The trial is limited to Councils.
"Residents should engage councils to determine if the vegetation management work they require meets to criteria to use this framework.
"Only Councils are permitted to directly engage ASPs for these works.
"Following success of the trial, the framework may be broadened to allow residents to directly engage appropriately authorised vegetation ASPs to complete such work.
"However, this will not be considered until the successful completion of the current trial."
The Grow Urban Street Tree group has reported "marking up" taking place on the Peninsula.
Members have found putting a sign on a tree or emailing the contractor Tree Serve both to have been successful methods.
"If you have a special tree outside your house that you want sensitively trimmed, rather than butchered, it might be an idea to request it," said Group member Ms Michelle Chandler.
SOURCE:
Media statement, 28 May 2021
Elise Barker, Ausgrid