Anger over cutback of large trees in Airport West

PEOPLE in Airport West are furious that up to 30 trees on­ residential streets could be chopped back by Essendon­ Airport in an effort to preserve airspace.

Helen and Jos Van den Berg and Ann Cannon pose in front of the tree they want to save. Picture: Ellen Smith

PEOPLE in Airport West are furious that up to 30 trees lining­ residential streets could be chopped back by Essendon­ Airport in an effort to preserve airspace.

Resident Helen van den Berg called the move an “outrageous attack on our rights” and is calling for the trees to remain as they are.

“The tall tree in Bowes Ave has taken 30 years to reach its height, it looks beautiful, gives character to the street, provides habitat for birds and adds value to houses,” Mrs van den Berg said.

“If you take three to five metres off this tree, you might as well take the whole tree out. Why are ratepayers having to lose the beauty of these trees?”

Residents said a representative of the airport surveyed trees last week, telling one person about 30 trees were to have about 5m lopped from the top.

The tree trimming comes on the back of a Federal Government announcement about several proposed changes to the curfew regulations of Essendon Airport, including allowing large jet aircraft to land at the airport 24-7.

Essendon Airport chief executive Chris Cowan said it was not uncommon for trees near airports to be trimmed.

“An annual survey has identified some trees which need to be trimmed,” Mr Cowan said.

“A consultant to the airport­ has been engaged to liaise with the owners of the trees and arrange trimming at the airport’s cost.

“The airport does this periodically, although it is really the responsibility of the owners.”