WORK COMMENCES ON INTERIM TREE REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS

The ACT Government has commenced work on each of the seven recommendations contained in the Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment's interim report on the street and park tree removals undertaken by the Department of Territory and Municipal Services.

The report looked at the process for removing trees classified as ‘dangerous' and ‘hazardous'.

"The ACT Government has a proud history of preserving the amenity of our unique urban forest. We welcome this report as it enables us to further refine our procedures and communication methods," Mr Stanhope said.

"We agree with each of the seven recommendations included in the report and have already commenced implementing them.

"Particular effort has gone into improving the notification process to inform the community about when a tree requires removal. This includes a tree works notice to surrounding residents which includes details for tree removal and replacement as well as a contact number; the erection of tree removal signage, and the placement of a list of trees being removed on the TAMS website.

"To meet the Commissioner's concern that the terms ‘dangerous' and ‘hazardous' are confusing, public communication will refer to tree removal due to ‘urgent circumstances', ‘non-urgent circumstances' or ‘dead trees' and will give clear timeframes.

"A city-wide audit has also taken place to identify ‘gaps' where tree planting can take place. It is recognised that while the impact of the drought has restricted our replanting programs in previous years, the Government needs to do a better job at replacing those trees which are removed for safety reasons. The audit will better inform this replanting program.

"The development of a Tree Management Policy will be completed by 30 December 2010 and will outline tree replacement and removal policies as well future tree management issues."

Mr Stanhope said the ACT Government was committed to preserving the beauty and amenity that trees bring to our suburbs and looked forward to receiving the Commissioner's final report on tree management practices and urban forest renewal program. This is due by 30 September 2010.

Media Contact:

Chantelle Lustri 6205 2775 0434 560 770 chantelle.lustri@act.gov.au
Jess Wurf 6205 0504 0411 772 700 jess.wurf@act.gov.au