Council has released its updated Tree Management Policy for 30 days of community feedback.
The Tree Management Policy was adopted in 2020 to provide a framework for the management of trees within the City of Greater Geelong and supports the objectives and vision of the Urban Forest Strategy 2015 and the Sustainability Framework 2020.
A review of this policy saw the City consult with internal stakeholders and improvements have been identified to provide greater clarity and guidance.
Some of the changes include the name of the policy to 'Public Tree Management Policy' to clarify that the policy applies to City owned and managed trees, additional clauses, updated terminologies, and revised wording.
The purpose of the policy is to ensure the management of trees within City of Greater Geelong improves our urban forest, enhances canopy cover and builds connections with native vegetation.
The policy was about effectively managing the City's trees.
City of Greater Geelong Mayor, Councillor Peter Murrihy;
Trees form an essential part of a healthy urban environment and provide many social, economic and environmental benefits.The Tree Management Policy continues to be an effective management tool for street and park trees, providing consistent and clear guidance on the management of trees.
The planning and management of trees in accordance with this policy will give due consideration to protecting Aboriginal culture and heritage.
City Works, Parks and Gardens portfolio chair, Councillor Anthony Aitken;
We have engaged with stakeholders to make amendments to this policy and we are really keen to gather further feedback from the community.I encourage anyone with an interest in this to have their say throughout the engagement period.
The 30-day community engagement period will begin on September 28.
