“This policy is designed to assist the council to provide a consistent and considered approach to the management and maintenance of street trees and meet the Community Strategic Plan objectives,” general manager Phil Stone said.
The Street Tree Management Policy addresses tree selection and location, tree removal, and maintenance and preservation.
“This policy seeks to provide a practical and balanced approach to tree management.
“Whilst the health, safety and welfare of council staff and the community is paramount, council is committed to preserving trees, improving the aesthetic urban landscape and effectively managing the environment.
“It’s important for the community to note, however, that under the Electricity Supply Act 1995 (NSW), Essential Energy has legal obligations to manage trees under powerlines.
“At the end of the day, legislation will always trump policy, and in circumstances where our policy position and the Act conflict, council will have limited ability to influence any outcome.”
This policy will apply to all current and future trees and shrubs that are growing on road nature strips.
The policy will be placed on public exhibition via the council website for 28 days, starting yesterday.
A further report will be tabled following the end of the public exhibition period. The closing date for submissions is 5pm on October 21.
