Highton tree removal
Mr CHEESEMAN (South Barwon) (09:59): Last weekend I was in the beautiful suburb of Highton talking to residents about what is most important to them and their community. Overwhelmingly residents were concerned about the increasing removal of Highton’s mature trees to make way for multi-unit developments, especially when such clearing is unnecessary for the development to proceed. Highton is well known for its many mature trees and its majestic tree canopy that has stood proud for decades in many parks and gardens throughout Highton. This greenery is a part of the heritage, character and amenity of this beautiful suburb—a suburb that I called home for many years. Now more than ever trees provide a vital role in protecting us against the worst aspects of climate change by helping keep our suburbs cool.
Trees are a vital part of the green infrastructure that makes our communities livable, and the City of Greater Geelong is not providing adequate protection for these trees under its planning scheme. Highton residents have watched in horror as the City of Greater Geelong has allowed more and more trees to be cut down and removed from their landscape. Planting new trees is not adequate as it takes many years for saplings to grow and mature and provide a mature tree canopy for this suburb. I am deeply concerned about this issue. (Time expired)