The draft Tree Replacement Strategy for the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway Upgrade projects is now open for community consultation with the community encouraged to provide feedback on tree planting and ensure our local environment flourishes into the future.
Member for Willoughby Tim James said a major condition of the projects is the replacement of any lost trees two for one with the enhancement of the local tree canopy.
“I have firmly and consistently expressed the desire that we not only restore our precious green, open spaces but ensure our tree canopy and natural environment is expanded, thriving and even better than it was before.” Mr James said.
“For every tree removed, two trees will be replanted, and in finalising the strategy the project is asking the local Willoughby community to help determine the best replacement tree species, sizes and locations.”
The draft Tree Replacement Strategy, which has been developed in consultation with North Sydney Council, is on public display from 7 December 2022 to 5 February 2023.
“I encourage our community to have a read of the proposals outlined in the draft strategy and submit your feedback so that we ensure that our local voices are heard.” Mr James said.
“I have long impressed on the project the value our community places on its natural environment, open space and vegetation and this strategy is reflective of the strong advocacy I have made to ensure the speedy restoration of our environment in full consultation with the community.”
“It is particularly pleasing that a progressive replanting strategy has been adopted with trees being replanted on an ongoing basis as the project continues.”
“As the freeway works are delivered, the Willoughby community will see more trees being replaced along the corridor as each part of the work is complete.” Mr James said.
The Government has engaged tree nurseries around Greater Sydney capable of supplying replacement trees, including some common larger native varieties found in the project corridor.
By the time the project is delivered, replacement trees will have already grown in some areas to significant heights and canopy width to provide canopy coverage as well as visual screening.
Once feedback from the community has been received and taken into consideration, the NSW Government will work in partnership with North Sydney Council to finalise the strategy and implement a replacement tree program.
The updated strategy is expected to be made publicly available in 2023, with replacement tree planting taking place progressively throughout the life of the project.
“With the release of the replanting strategy and with the commencement of replacement tree plantings at Cammeray Golf Course set to commence this month the future is starting to take shape.” Mr James said.
“Whilst the construction phase of any major project is difficult, these sites will be returned to our community and will deliver real positives in time.”
To read the draft Tree Replacement Strategy and to have your say visit: www.caportal.com.au/rms/wfu/trees