In July Council received a “Cut or Trim” notice from Powerco requesting the removal of the Phoenix palms on Humphries St.  This was because of the hazard the trees create with the power lines, and the request was made under the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003.  Council officers took advice on whether the trees could be pruned sufficiently to ameliorate the situation but were advised that, due to the nature of the tree, sufficient pruning would kill them.  Council staff also considered the alternative of putting the power lines underground, but this was not found to be cost-effective.

Council officers requested approval to remove the trees from the Greytown Community Board at its 17 July meeting, and this was granted. The Community Board instructed officers to seek community input into the choice of replacement trees.

Please forward any suggestions to Helen McNaught, Property and Facilities Manager.

Posted:  8 August 2013