Work on the Williamstown Botanic Gardens master plan will start this week with attention focussed on the Pinetum (LA Parker Reserve).
A new irrigation system, design and planting around the open air bandstand area, layout of new garden beds, refinement of the paths, extensive tree planting, turf works and installation of steel edging, additional picnic facilities and rubbish bins are all part of the scope of works.
Seventeen trees in various locations of the Pinetum, including along The Esplanade, will be removed during the works. These trees have been declining and therefore if they were left in place they would, in the future, present a safety risk.
Council is working with the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Geelong Botanic Gardens and Heritage Victoria horticultural experts to replant and rejuvenate the aging tree population, diversify species, increase canopy cover and improve the windbreak function of trees on the boundary.
Safety fencing will be erected along the edge of the Pinetum and staff, contractors, trucks and machinery will be on site.
