The claret ash trees will be removed from Alexandra’s Centrepoint carpark later this year following a decision by the Central Otago District Council.
The council agreed to remove the "significant trees" following a complex debate at the final council meeting last year that balanced the community’s enjoyment and the benefit of the trees with property liability, a statement from the council said.
The Vincent Community Board had recommended that decision to the council after the matter was raised at its December meeting.
The trees, a feature of the carpark for more than 30 years, had been a longstanding concern for neighbouring business Limerick Properties, the statement said.
Reports to the meeting highlighted leaf litter blocking roof drains which led to significant flooding and damage to nearby commercial properties, while the root systems created trip hazards in the public carpark.
It was noted that the council was dealing with the consequences of decisions made more than 30 years ago and the councillors discussed the importance of choosing the right trees today so that future councils would not face the same issues in decades to come.
During the meeting it was observed that the council maintained trees on what was essentially private land and that had created a "grey area" for liability.
Consequently, an amendment was added to the final resolution, directing the chief executive to investigate and formalise the ownership and maintenance agreements for the carpark.
Vincent Community Board chairman Jayden Cromb said he understood trees were important to people.
"This has been a longstanding issue and we’re pleased to have reached a resolution and look forward to the completed replanting plan soon. We also look forward to the maintenance agreements and responsibilities for this space being clearly defined for the future."
Initially four trees were to be felled, but now one on the roadside near the carpark would stay, a council spokesperson said.
The trees were scheduled to be removed before autumn.
Council staff will work on a suitable replanting plan. — Allied Media
