The Flyer

The St James Ave Tree Removal Proposal

The CCC has proposed that the St James Avenue Scarlet Oaks be cut down and replaced with Scarlet Oak saplings. However, this plan is flawed for the following reasons:

·The arborist’s opinion is only an approximate estimate of tree life expectancy and may well fall far short of the actual life of the trees, about 100 years. Even if he is only 5 years out in his guesstimate, he is taking away the last 10-15 years of enjoyment of the current generation of residents and their children.

·The arborist’s opinion is based on his personal view that our avenue must have perfect symmetry, with identical trees along the street. However, even with replanting it is folly to believe that none of the saplings will need replacement. So will one failing tree ruin “the effect” and force another round of chopping and replanting? Far better to promote a sustainable resource by replacing current trees only when and where it is necessary. This has worked well with some of the other trees in St James Ave, as well as in many other tree-lined streets throughout the city.

·The idea of replacing the tree with small saplings “for future generations” is major spin. New trees will remain small for at least 15 years, and because of their size they will be susceptible to vandalism, a frequent problem in our neighbourhood. Ngaio Street in St Martins is held up as a fine example to copy, but St James Ave residents should go to Ngaio Street to fully appreciate what a pale reflection of the present trees this would create, and what a disaster for our current generation and the next generation this would be. If the state of Matson’s Ave trees is anything to go by, the Council plan has no chance! We need to protect our heritage.

·The Council justifies its plan using the state of the tree outside 116 St James Ave, but the stated reasons for this apparent poor state of health do not stack up. The tree in question is well clear of adjacent trees, and yet it is said that proximity to its neighbours has caused stunting. While there is some damage to this tree, it is a younger tree which one would expect to be smaller anyway. Other young trees further up the avenue are growing well, despite being close to larger trees.

·While it is true the trees will make the kerb and channel replacement more difficult, good supervision of contractors should increase the chances of tree survival. Inevitably there will still be some damage to roots, and this may shorten the tree life by 5 years. On the other hand, the removal of tar seal from over the roots and the planting of grassed areas in its place will improve root uptake of water and nutrients and improve the health of some trees.

·The Council is effectively dismantling its previous designation of St James Ave as a Special Amenities Area. Currently the Council acknowledges that “the most noteworthy elements of the street that help create the high level of amenity are the mature trees, large grass berms, and well vegetated front yards” (www.ccc.govt.nz/CityPlan/Sams/16/). Of these three elements, front yards are under the care of residents and not the Council. Although the Council should be responsible for the upkeep of the trees and grassed areas, it seems intent on abandoning its responsibilities.

·The Council has other undisclosed reasons why it would be convenient for the trees to be felled and replaced. Chopping down trees prior to starting roadworks is of course easier and cheaper. And the ongoing costs of maintenance such as trimming and leaf collection would also be avoided. But these trees are a living Memorial to the Fallen, and as such they deserve greater respect. ANZAC Day marches would not be the same.

Although some of the CCC staff appear to have the best of intentions, this ill-conceived plan will only diminish the value of this area to the community, socially, financially and historically.

Things you can do:

·Write to Brian Boddy, CCC, POBox 237, Chch, or email Brian.Boddy@ccc.govt.nz

·Tie a red ribbon around your favourite oak tree!

Mike & Jacqui Hurrell
121 St James Ave
mhurrell@xtra.co.nz