Published on:
Tuesday, 5 March 2024- Urban areas of Westen Australia losing trees on private land faster than they can be replaced
- New WALGA model to provide consistency on tree retention policy for decision-makers, proponents and communities
- Model gives a clear definition of a mature or ‘regulated tree’
- Perth has the lowest tree canopy cover of any Australian capital city, at just 16%.
WALGA has today released a new Model Local Planning Policy (LPP) to support Local Governments to stem the loss in tree canopy cover in urban areas across Western Australia.
Councils can adopt the Model Local Planning Policy (LPP) Tree Retention, which will clarify will whether tree removal (or other tree damaging activity) is works that requires development approval.
WALGA State President Karen Chappel reinforced the important role the new model policy will play in stemming the loss in tree canopy cover.
“Local Governments have been at the forefront in addressing the loss in canopy cover through tree planting on verges, parks and other public areas, with support from the State Government through the Urban Greening Grant Program.
“But planting new trees is not enough to stem the loss in canopy cover. We need to do more to preserve our existing mature trees.
“The policy will provide a high level of protection for our most significant of our canopy trees, removing the need for Councils to get approval from the State Government on planning processes.”
The LPP aims to provide a consistent approach to preserve trees at all stages of the planning and development process, including strategic planning proposals and subdivision applications, as well as development applications.
The model LPP defines the term ‘regulated tree’ being a living tree that:
- Is 8 metres or more high; and/or
- Has an average canopy diameter of at least 6 metres; and/or
- Has a trunk circumference of at least 1.5 metres, measured 1.4 metres above the ground; and
- Is of a species that is not included on State or local area weed register.
“If a Council chooses to use this model it will make decision making on preserving mature trees more consistent and effective.”
The Model Local Planning Policy (LPP) Tree Retention aligns with the WALGA 2024-25 State Budget Submission, published in November 2023.
Cooler cities and shadier suburbs: $20m between 2024-25 and 2027-28 to expand the Urban Greening Grant Program. $1m in 2024-5 for a State-Wide Urban Forest Strategy.
To request an interview with WALGA President Karen Chappel, please contact WALGA Media & Communications Manager Simon Beaumont 0448 896 435
