Aging Cashmere trees removed to protect public

1 February 2005

Seven potentially dangerous willow trees on Sloan Tce, Cashmere were removed by Christchurch City Council contractors last week.

Council arborist, Tony Armstrong said the trees, beside the Heathcote River, had reached the end of their lifespan and become a danger to the public because of their closeness to the road, river, residential property and Thorrington School.

“We removed them last week, prior to the start of the school term, to minimize any hazards and inconvenience while the work was carried out,” he said.

The health of trees along the Heathcote River was re-assessed late last year. The Sloan Tce willows were among 24 specimens identified as needing removal within the next six months.  Remaining trees are in Waimea , Riverlaw , Palatine, Hunter, Fifield and Eastern Terraces.  A number of trees on these streets will also be pruned while contractors are in the area.

Next month, the Council will consult with the community as it works to develop a long term vision for the Heathcote River between Colombo St and Hansen Park.  This vision will include trees and landscaping for the various areas along this stretch of the river.

Christchurch City Council project manager John de Zwart said, any decisions about what would be done with areas where trees had been removed would not be implemented until next year.  “It is worth waiting just a few months to ensure that any new plantings or landscaping fit with what the community and Council want for the Heathcote River for the next 50 years,” he said.

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