FOUR tall poplar trees in Sloane St were given the chop yesterday as part of plans for a bus shelter and beautification works.
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Councillors authorised removal of the approximate 30-metre high trees on the northern side of the Visitors Information Centre at their recent meeting. They also endorsed construction of a bus shelter in the same area and a 70m path from the northern vehicle entry to the existing curved path at the VIC.
A report stated that two of the trees were large and “may have some rot.”
“Poplars are not a long living tree,” the report stated.
“(We) suggest removal of the poplar trees and to put the footpath directly behind the kerb. More decorative trees could then be planted.
“Whilst this may be a better option for pedestrian movement to and from parked buses, it would be an expensive exercise. Even if the path goes behind the trees, removal of poplars should be considered at a later date.”
Cr Andrew Banfield asked for an arborist’s view of the trees’ health, only to be told by general manager Warwick Bennett that Council staff were qualified in this area.
Acting engineering director Rob Hughes told the Post there was concern about how long the trees would last and as such, it was seen as an opportunity for beautification works.
The trees’ removal would allow alignment of the pathway behind the soon to be constructed bus shelter.
The council decided to build a new shelter after demolishing the bus stop amenities in Cartwright Place.
Cr Banfield suggested somewhere close to the courthouse, allowing travellers to use the Belmore Park amenities.
But Council’s heritage advisor, Louise Thom warned this would have an “adverse impact.”
She said as one of the most significant heritage properties in Goulburn it needed a clear visual cartilage and that construction of a bus shelter would disturb its symmetry, the fence and a bull-nosed brick kerb.
Staff also argued it wasn’t the best place for a bus stop given vandalism rates, the reconfiguration of parking spots required and because it was primarily a tourist rest stop where few people waited for a bus.
In contrast, travellers could use bathrooms at the VIC, which would also encourage tourism visitation.
A ‘modular shelter’ with pine posts, galvanised hardware and windbreak enclosures will be built on a concrete slab at a total $9910 cost. A bus zone will also be established.
The work is expected to take six weeks. The traffic committee will also investigate establishment of a pedestrian crossing near the bus shelter.
The report revealed that demolition of the Cartwright Place amenities saved $14,000 on the original $30,000 estimate.
Council will also receive $18,600 from Essential Energy in return for allowing them to build a small pad mounted substation in front of the former restrooms and toilet.