By Cassandra Pulver

The northern side of Grant Street is currently undergoing kerb and guttering works by Council, which required the removal of a sidewalk foxtail palm.

Business owners on Grant Street were concerned when DSC removed a foxtail palm along the streetscape causing them to ask the question why?  There was further concern about the foxtail palms being removed on the southern side of Grant Street, opposite current works, which would total approximately 8 trees.

We contacted council for comment and Infrastructure Manager Michael Kriedemann advised that “Council is renewing the kerb and channel in Grant Street to provide better access for our community and visitors.  One foxtail palm was undermining the existing kerb and had to be removed so it does not do the same to the new kerb.  No other trees were removed,” said Michael.

In this instance no community consultation took place, however Council advised that “the foxtail palm had to be removed because it was damaging Council infrastructure. Council has a duty to ratepayers to repair damaged infrastructure. Community consultation does not occur in this instance,” Michael added.

There was only one tree removed on the northern side, that may be replaced sometime in the future, which was taken to the Council landfill green waste facility council advised.

What about the foxtail palms on the southern side? There is concern that these trees will be removed as well.  Council advised the trees will not be removed as DSC are only replacing the kerb and guttering on the northern side of Grant Street.

Whilst the streetscape is currently under construction and looking less than aesthetically attractive, council advised that “from time to time, concrete kerb has to be replaced due to poor condition and reduced service performance.  Council is responsible for providing transport infrastructure (including roads, footpaths, parking etc.) to ensure equitable access for all road users.  In this instance ‘better access’ refers to the improved drainage performance of the new kerb which will deliver a higher service standard to all road users.  Stormwater ponding is an aesthetic issue as well as a safety issue.  By rebuilding this kerb, ‘better’ or improved access will be achieved,” said Michael.