Ratepayers to decide on Warner Street upgrade

PORT DOUGLAS

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Three options are on the table for the proposed Warner Street upgrade project in Port Douglas. IMAGE: Newsport.

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PORT Douglas ratepayers will be asked to choose between three different options from an Analysis Report for the Warner Street Upgrade Project to improve the street between Owen and Grant Streets.

Based on what direction is taken, improved parking, cycle lanes and large native trees could feature at a Port Douglas boulevard if an essential upgrade is completed.

Mayor Julia Leu said the public will influence the fate of the street.

“This is a really important opportunity for the community to have their say,” she said. 

“Council has received numerous concerns about flooding, trip hazards and falling branches that can become a safety concern.

“The Rosewood trees are really suffering but they are also damaging the roads, footpaths and underground drainage.”

The options provide different scenarios that balance parking availability, footpaths, bike lanes, drainage and landscaping.

Council said the the preferred option will be guided by the community.

A tree health condition report completed by an arborist found that very few of the 66 trees have sufficient allowance for root development and this makes them susceptible to disease.

Council plan to revegetate the street with large native trees to replicate the ambience and want public input into the choice of trees. The trees identified so far include Golden Bouquet Tree, Melaleuca, Handkerchief Tree, Pink Lace flower and Silkwood. 

“Our nursery technicians have picked some really iconic Australian tree species that are fast-growing, suitable for urban environments and love water,” said Leu.

“We know people value the trees in Warner Street, and this is an opportunity to influence the types of trees that are planted and whether we have a mixture of species.”

A letter box drop was conducted for residents and businesses on Warner St in between Owen and Grant Streets. The plan is available on Council’s website, as well as information on the different types of trees, how fast each species grows and images of mature trees.

Council staff will have displays at the Port Douglas Markets 9 September, Mossman Markets 15 September and at Woolworths and Coles throughout the week – dates and times will be made available on Council’s website and Facebook page.

 - Full detail can be found HERE  
 
 - Options analysis report can be found HERE  

 - Arborist report can be found HERE 

 

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