By Brendan Rees
Nine London plane trees in a Narre Warren estate will be given the chop following complaints from neighbours the trees were wreaking havoc.
Casey council approved for the trees to be replaced with more suitable ones at their 19 November meeting after residents of Penhurst Street and the surrounding estate said the tree roots were tearing up their garden beds, kerbs and footpaths – but not all residents are happy with the outcome.
Arborists assessed 113 nature strip trees close to council road, footpath and drainage and concluded it was “currently showing signs of displacement which could be attributed to presence of trees roots”.
But the “majority of trees,” which are believed to be the cause of hay fever and allergic reactions, were found to be compliant with council’s tree planting criteria, council said.
As a result, 32 trees have been marked for remedial pruning by the end of the year while nine trees approved for removal in Penhurst Street, Birchfield Court, Deanswood Way, Heyfield Court, Applegum Court and Carroll Court will be replaced in council’s 2020 tree planting program.
It comes as neighbours launched a petition of 52 signatures asking for the trees to be replaced earlier this year.
Head petitioner Ken Binaisse said he was disappointed council had not responded to the “majority wishes” of those who had signed the petition.
“The root growth characteristics are not suitable in their present location,” he said, adding the London plane at the front of his house was a major cause for concern.
“My footpath has already lifted again … and I’ve definitely got roots lifting my brickwork.
“They’re not even going to prune mine.”
When the petition was tabled at February council meeting, Mr Binaisse said ratepayers had faced “forever ongoing costs” of footpath repairs over the years due to the trees.
Mr Binaisse added when council sent an inspector to the estate he followed him around his street, pointing out damage to private property “but nothing came of it.”
Meanwhile, he said more footpaths had been lifted by tree roots, leaving them open to trips and falls.
According to a council report, 18 locations were “exhibiting signs of footpath or kerb displacement” and will be referred to council inspection and reinstatement programs “as required”.
With regards to complaints of damage to private infrastructure, council says it will “assess and individually manage these situations as whilst they may appear similar there are often many variables that require consideration”.
Council will also undertake tree pruning “where appropriate in conjunction with infrastructure reinstatement”.
Mr Binaisse said he would consider taking legal action against council.
Councillor Rosalie Crestani said she supported council officers’ recommendations which were a “positive outcome” for the community.
