More than 30 mature trees to be removed in Dee Why
THE AVENUES in this Sydney suburb are famed for its glorious canopy, so plans to remove more than 30 mature brush boxes have left residents fuming.
RESIDENTS have launched a fight to save more than 30 mature trees from being chopped down in Dee Why.
In the last few days more than 500 people have signed a petition against the removal of around 33, 60-year-old brush boxes and other native trees from Oaks, Howard and surrounding avenues.
Bernadette Flynn, who lives in Howard Ave, said the trees gave the area its special feel, as well as providing privacy for residents, shade and a home for birds, gliders, possums, owls and fruit bats.
She understood concerns about tree roots undermining the footpath, but said there must be a better solution.
“Some trees have already been taken down for the Meriton project and replaced with what appears to be some spindly twigs,” she said.
“There must be a solution to the disruption of the footpath other than chopping down healthy trees.”
Current works include the northern side of Howard Ave and a section in Oaks Ave.
In Howard Ave construction will soon start on the new 3m wide shared path connecting Dee Why Town Centre to the beach to allow residents improved walking and cycling routes.
As part of this project, the council will be replacing 17 trees with 36 new ones.
The council said replacement trees would be at least 4m high and all were natives.
On Oaks Ave, the council is replacing trees between Pittwater Rd and the post office.
A total of around 33 trees across Oaks and Howard Avenues will be replaced with 83 new tree — again mainly native species.
General Manager Environment and Infrastructure Ben Taylor said the council was in the middle of a huge project to enhance Dee Why.
“The result will be beautiful new streetscapes, more than double the number of trees and a fantastic new shared path connecting the beach with the town centre,” Mr Taylor said.
“Our residents tell us they’d love to have walking and cycling as their preferred travel choice and in Dee Why, that’ll soon be a reality.
“While no one likes to see a tree removed, unfortunately the existing trees can’t be retained as their roots are destroying the footpaths and making it difficult for people, especially the elderly and less mobile to safely get around.
“At least two mature trees will replace any tree removed, providing shade and habitats for our local wildlife for many years to come.”
Ms Flynn said concerned residents were planning to peacefully protest at 10am on Monday outside Woolworths in Oaks Ave when work was due to commence.