Removal of Poplar Trees in Coronation Park

Removal of Poplar Trees in Coronation Park Manjimup

August 2017

The Manjimup Shire Council has resolved to remove the five Poplar Trees from Coronation Park in Manjimup. The trees were originally planted around an elevated water tank which was removed many years ago. Damage to infrastructure caused from the root systems of the introduced species is the catalyst for the tree removal.

Shire President Paul Omodei said that "Cameras were recently used to inspect the condition of existing drainage pipes within the CBD. The camera investigation has confirmed that the Poplar Trees have again entered the storm water pipe system and caused damage to the pipe network. It is also likely that the associated root system is causing damage to the road surface in Giblett Street".

"This camera investigation was undertaken to determine which pipes may need replacement and/or upgrading in association with the works in the Brockman Street and CBD precincts as part of the Town Centre Revitalisation Project" added Cr Omodei.

Poplar trees are an introduced species to Western Australia and are now well recognised as having very vigorous and invasive root systems, stretching up to 40m from the trees. The proposed tree removal has been supported by the Manjimup Town Centre Revitalisation Committee and Council and public comments are not being sought as removal of the trees is unavoidable due to the damage being caused to the park and road infrastructure.

Subject to appropriate weather conditions, the tree removal will be undertaken in early October 2017.

-ENDS-

Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer

Contact Sheri Laba, Public Relations Officer

Contact for comment: Paul Omodei, Shire President.

Contact: 0448 810 773