Community
1 November, 2024
McNicol St elms coming down
SEVEN elm trees on McNicol Street in Camperdown are reaching the end of their life span and need to be replaced.
After a tree fell during high winds in August, Corangamite Shire Council engaged an arborist to assess the neighbouring elms.
Acting manager facilities and recreation Jane Hinds said the arborist found all seven elms in McNicol Street were in a state of significant health or structural decline.
“The arborist has suggested the best management option is to remove all seven trees and replant with new tree stock,” she said.
“The replacements will be linden trees, in keeping with the trees that are planted in the next block up along McNicol Street.
“We will proceed with the removal and replacement of all trees in coming weeks and new trees will be planted as soon as possible after removal.”
Western District Newspapers understands no dates have been confirmed for the tree removal works at this stage.
Council’s Urban Street Tree Asset Management Plan aims to preserve historical landscapes and existing tree species.
It states new tree planting should reinforce the existing character themes of areas, and this extends to the replacement of trees.
The elms in McNicol Street are not protected by heritage planning controls which seek to protect trees of historical importance across the shire, such as the Finlay Avenue of Elms.
“Council is very conscious of the need to protect heritage and environmental assets and at the same time removing risks to maintain public safety,” Ms Hinds said.
Read More: Camperdown