Optometrist Dr Gary Venz from Coral Sea Eyecare said he hoped any new infrastructure would put an end to the flooding his business endures ‘at least three times a year’.

His staff were forced to push a customer’s car from flash flooding just a fortnight ago.

“We’re really happy to hear that they are looking at doing something,” Dr Venz said.

“Basically every wet season the drain in front of our shop backs up and cars will go underwater if they are parked out the front.

“They definitely needed to have at look at the drainage situation, although I’d be reluctant for them to pull out all the trees as they are iconic to Warner Street.” 

Douglas Shire Council is currently requesting feedback about upgrade options from infrastructure consultant Cardno.

Mayor Julia Leu said a recent arborists report found many of the tree roots were damaging the road and drains along the street.

“Businesses and residents have had issues with water not draining away, with
pools of smelly water and leaves clogging up drains,” Cr Leu said.

“In addition, an arborist’s report commissioned by Council found that very few of the trees have sufficient allowance for root development and this makes them susceptible to disease.

“It will be a complex exercise which will explore how the trees could be protected, or whether we need a more suitable tree species and ensure there is sufficient area for the roots to mature without any impact on infrastructure.”

Acting manager at Port Douglas Backpackers Kayla Muirhead said lighting along Warner Street was well overdue.

The street is a busy thoroughfare between Four Mile Beach, Macrossan Street and the marina for her guests.

“It’s great news for us as it gets very dark here in the evenings,” she said.

“We definitely get a lot of comments from guests mentioning how dark the street is at night.

“Having said that, they do love the trees during the day time.”

Cr Leu encouraged locals interested in having input to register now and be notified when the public consultation opens.