Gosnells tree felling applauded
15/Jan/2010
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WHILE a metropolitan council in the south-eastern suburbs was quick to take the axe to 20 big trees it said were dangerous, the City of Rockingham holds a different view to street trees, according to Rockingham resident Roy Rogers.
He said he had been in touch with the council several times in the past three to four years to ask it to prune and shape the sheoaks in Success Drive.
One at the moment has a big dead branch hanging dangerously. When such branches broke, they left spears that posed an additional hazard. Mr Rogers said the council should take note from the City of Gosnells which had recently cut down 20 big gum trees in Hume Road, citing safety reasons because of their potential to drop heavy limbs.
He applauded the Gosnells decision although it has angered some local residents, including Richard Pennicuik who had been sitting in one of the street trees outside his home since December 7 in protest against the decision to remove them.
“Here we have a council in Perth ready and willing to cut down street trees for the safety of ratepayers and others,” Mr Rogers said. “But I am disgusted with Rockingham council.
“For many times during storms or high winds, which Rockingham is noted for, these trees have branches broken off.
“I reported it to council yet they still have done nothing.”
Mr Rogers said the trees were also a fire hazard as they were full of sap and easily flammable.
Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said the trees on Success Drive had been reported to the parks operations department for investigation and action.
He said all trees along street verges were monitored, but he encouraged residents to report concerns to 9528 8500.
as posted here
