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Have your say

Seeking feedback on draft policy for trees and vegetation on public land

Council is seeking feedback on a draft policy for trees and vegetation in urban areas on Council-managed public land and an associated draft procedure, Nature Strip Planting Guideline.

Tree lined street.

21 March 2023

Bega Valley Shire Council is seeking feedback on a draft policy for trees and vegetation in urban areas on Council-managed public land and an associated draft procedure, Nature Strip Planting Guideline.

Director Community, Environment and Planning, Emily Harrison said the draft policy for trees and vegetation contains 13 policy statements covering elements such as nature strip planting, tree and vegetation maintenance, tree removal, pruning and replacement, community engagement, endorsed tree species list, natural area revegetation programs, tree register and tree planting.

“Trees and vegetation in our urban areas provide a range of environmental and social benefits, such as shade and shelter, habitat, private property value and reduction in air pollution,” Ms Harrison said.

“However, they also come with safety, risk and maintenance considerations.

“The draft policy aims to balance these concerns against the environmental benefits and improved amenity for the community.

“In some cases, trees that were previously appropriate can become a financial burden on Council to manage or remove. Ensuring the species selection, siting and planting of future trees and vegetation is appropriate is vital to prevent poor outcomes and unnecessary costs to Council.

“The draft policy provides a consistent and transparent framework for Council officers and the public when managing trees and vegetation in the urban areas of the shire.”

Ms Harrison said the proposed Nature Strip Planting Guideline outlines a range of low-impact planting and landscaping activities that can be carried out on nature strips by residents without requiring further approval from Council.

“Many residents take great pride in maintaining their nature strip and we are very supportive of this as long as the area still provides for safe access and use by the public,” Ms Harrison said.

“Before residents create a garden in their nature strip, they need to be prepared to maintain it; weeding and pruning plants so they don’t grow over pathways, neighbour’s driveways or the kerb.

“Residents also need to remember that nature strips contain important public infrastructure, such as fire hydrants and water pipes, and there are legal requirements to take precautions so the infrastructure is not damaged or affected.

“So before getting started, residents should do some research and planning and this is where our draft guideline comes into the picture.

“It contains a list of activities, some with images, to help you understand the legal and practical requirements, along with a list of Council-endorsed plants and which ones to avoid.”

Council has a Have Your Say on its website for feedback on the draft policy and guideline, which will close on Tuesday 18 April.

Making an enquiry

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Councillors

Councillors can be contacted directly for enquiries regarding decisions of the elected Council and non-operational matters. Interviews with the Mayor should be arranged through the Communication and Engagement team contact details above.

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