Proactive Tree Removal Scheduled by Invercargill City Council on Kelvin Street

Invercargill City Council has scheduled the proactive removal of a third batch of trees along Kelvin St. This task is a continuation of similar actions undertaken in July 2021 and July 2022, in line with the guidelines of the Invercargill City Council Tree Plan 2020.

The plan outlines the Council’s strategy to maintain sustainability of trees while ensuring public safety via responsible management.

According to Caroline Rain, the Council’s Parks and Recreation Manager, Kelvin Street will be closed off between Fox St and Victoria Ave during the tree removal.

To ensure smooth traffic flow, traffic management will be implemented on Saturday, 17 June, and from 9 am to 4 pm, from Monday 19 June to Friday 23 June.

Rain shared that most of the trees marked for removal are 90 to 100 years old, mainly pinus radiata and some poplars. She highlighted the Council’s need to eliminate the risk of these aged trees falling and causing damage to properties or life. Rain added that some trees removed in 2021 were found to be internally rotten, signifying potential risks.

To replace the trees, the Council will plant a row of pine, macrocarpa, and gum trees as stated in the Invercargill City Council Tree Plan 2020. Rain explained, “These trees grow swiftly and will offer the necessary shelter to the park. We will also plant a second row of native shrubs and smaller trees along with specimen trees behind this shelter line.”

During the felling process, some residents will be asked to leave their homes briefly. Residents have been informed, and staff will ensure awareness by knocking on doors before felling commences each day.

Trees on Kelvin Street between Fox Street & Victoria Avenue to be removed. Photo: ICC

The residents are required to vacate their homes for up to two hours in compliance with sections 11.4 and 11.4.3 of the Approved Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Forest Operations, which stipulate safe distance rules for tree felling.

Rain added that spotters will be on-site to halt operations if a resident needs to exit their homes during the felling. She mentioned that the week of Monday 26 June has been reserved for any work delays due to bad weather or extended operations.