Glenwood jacarandas are safe
A PUBLIC meeting to discuss the fate of the beloved jacaranda trees that line Ferguson Road in Glenwood has been considered a success.
Ferguson Road residents attended the meeting with municipal representatives to discuss the proposed felling of the trees in the road.
The residents were addressed by Garth Kloppenborg from the Department of Parks and Recreation, who emphasised that trees were only felled as a last resort.
Residents agreed that some of the trees would have to come down as they posed a safety risk and could not be rehabilitated.
Illa Thompson said the meeting highlighted the benefits of proactive engagement between the city and the community.
“We appealed to the parks department to have the other trees trimmed back so they were not top heavy, and also so they did not interfere with electric cables. We are very happy that the municipality has agreed to cut the remaining trees back, as this was not previously an option,” she said.
The department also gave residents the option of choosing which indigenous trees would be planted in place of the trees that were removed.
“We have the option of buying the replacement trees. Instead of just getting a small sapling that would be paid for by the municipality, we could buy a larger, more established tree,” said Thompson.
Sarah Brockett was also pleased they had the option to choose the new trees. “The replacement trees will not be in exactly the same position as the current trees, but will be in close proximity depending on various factors such as underground pipes and electricity cables. I think the municipality realised that we were serious about the trees in our road. We have a sincere interest in our neighbourhood,” Brockett said.
Jennifer Rampersad of the parks department said they were pleased with the community feedback. “There was good communication between the parties. We will be waiting until June or July to plant because it’s cooler then.
“We will hold a ceremony for planting and celebrating the new trees. The community can look after the trees thereafter,” she said.
Thompson said residents appreciated the municipality giving them the chance to decide on replacement trees. “We are doing research on what trees will be best suited for our road and are delighted to be engaging with officials from parks and recreation, and appreciate their time, input and interest in our neighbourhood.”