Council is committed to renewing the asphalt footpath pavement in Kepler Street.
Currently, sections of the existing footpath are rough and can be difficult to negotiate.
The footpath renewal presents an opportunity to undertake streetscape works that will improve accessibility and safety of the footpath.
A feature of Kepler Street are about 30 mature New Zealand Christmas trees planted within the footpath. While the trees are appreciated for their character, shade and greenery, they have caused some damage the footpath.
The trees are planted within the footpaths which means that the footpath is narrower alongside the trees.
The footpath is still compliant in terms of width but the tree roots have contributed to the uneven surface of the path.
Council is proposing to remove the trees along Kepler Street between Timor and Lava streets and replace them with new trees that would be planted in specialised tree pits.
You can view the draft plans here.
The new trees are likely to be a combination of Lophostemon confertus (brush box) and Magnolia (Kay Parriss variety).
Should Council proceed with this proposal, the new trees would be planted in roughly the same position as the existing trees, using large tree pits to contain tree roots and minimise the risk of damage to the footpaths, drainage infrastructure and buildings.
The use of tree pits also ensures the trees have access to sufficient uncompacted soil to remain healthy as they mature.
This approach, which would cost about $25,000 per tree, would reduce ongoing footpath maintenance costs. It would also reduce ongoing costs associated with tree trimming under power lines through appropriate species selection.
Before proceeding with this proposal Council wants to hear from the community.
While drainage and footpaths are assets, so too are trees. Do you think we should remove the trees to improve the accessibility and safety of the footpaths? Or do you think we should retain the existing trees but be prepared to more regularly repair the footpath?
Please let us know what you think in the survey below.
Alternatively can write to contact@warrnambool.vic.gov.au
Or write to:
Infrastructure
Warrnambool City Council
PO Box 198
Warrnambool VIC 3280