Council moves swiftly to reduce safety risk from trees: Issued 8 August 2012
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EmailMEDIA RELEASE: 8 August 2012
The City of Casey has put the safety of the public first by scheduling the removal of 28 trees which pose a safety risk.
Council has responded to a recent arborist’s report recommending the removal of the 25 metre Spotted Gum Trees located in Old Coach Road, Berwick.
The removal of the trees does not require a permit because of an exemption in the planning scheme for trees which represent an immediate safety risk.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Sam Aziz said the safety of the community is Council’s number one priority.
‘In considering the future of these trees, Council has had to make a tough decision, balancing the environmental significance of the trees and the potential safety risk they pose. Ultimately we have to put the safety of our residents first,’ said Cr Aziz.
‘Concerns about the longevity of the trees were initially raised with Council in 2008 and as a result, two years ago Council planted a new line of trees in anticipation that the older trees would ultimately be removed.
‘Since 2008, Council has closely monitored these trees with remedial work being routinely undertaken to reduce any potential safety risk.
‘It is unfortunate that in recent months the trees were included in a listing of Significant Trees in Casey, but only because the relevant Council staff had not been aware of the planned removal.’
At the Council Meeting held 7 August 2012, an urgent notice of motion was raised by Cr Judy Owen to defer the removal of the trees, however, was defeated.
‘The urgent notice of motion was defeated as Council considered that the trees be removed to reduce the safety risk,’ said Cr Aziz.
The Mayor concluded, ‘Council has been forced to move swiftly in the interests of public safety and has arranged for the 28 trees to be removed as soon as possible.’