A proposal to cancel the registration of a mature London Plane tree in Franklin Street, Griffith has been denied by the ACT Conservator for Flora and Fauna.
The Conservator, Ian Walker said a development application for the redevelopment of Blocks 3 and 4 in Section 96, Griffith sought to remove the tree from the ACT Tree Register.
“Trees play such an important role in our city and provide many benefits including providing shade and reducing air pollution and energy costs. They also add significantly to the character of our bush capital,” Mr Walker said.
“This particular tree was put on the ACT Tree Register in May 2012 in recognition of its contribution to the landscape and aesthetic value, which remains today.”
He said he considered a range of factors in making his decision, including public submissions, information from the proponent, advice from the Independent Tree Advisory Panel, advice from the ACT’s Chief Planner and advice from the interim National Capital Design Review Panel.
“The decision does not preclude future development from taking place,” Mr Walker said.
“It seeks to consider how trees are incorporated into developments bringing living infrastructure into designs to cool the city, provide habitat for wildlife, maintain air quality and create a sense of place for future generations.”
He said he hoped that by maintaining the tree’s protective status, it would continue its long life and people would further appreciate it as a natural focal point of the Manuka landscape.
