Plane trees offer shade on Timor Street.
FOUNDING civic leaders left a green legacy in street trees around Warrnambool, now the community has a chance to follow their example.
City councillors this week gave in-principle support to the first official policy on street trees, which roots them into future streetscapes and priorities.
It has been thrown open to the community to comment for the next four weeks before a final vote.
The policy lists tree species and guidelines on maintenance, planting, removal and pruning, as well as ensuring there are funds set aside in council budgets.
Three councillors called for locals with expertise on trees to be invited to assist the council’s city landscape advisory committee.
“This policy is long overdue, but we need a group of six well-informed people to guide the committee,” Cr Peter Hulin said.
Crs Peter Sycopoulis and Brian Kelson said it was vital to get advice on the right trees, with the latter pointing to examples of the wrong species.
Cr Jacinta Ermacora said there would be varied views on tree species, but she wanted to hear community comments rather than imposing her opinion.
pcollins@fairfaxmedia.com.au