Trees in Waverley

Trees perform many functions. Culturally, they contribute to the character of an area and add a sense of life and place. They instil a sense of community pride in residents and can even calm and inspire. Environmentally, they provide natural air conditioning, shade, habitat for native wildlife, soil restoration and shelter against noise and wind. Aesthetically, they add natural beauty and provide a necessary softening of the built environment.

In Waverley today, the majority of trees currently selected for public planting are ‘native’ with a small percentage of deciduous exotic trees chosen to allow for solar-access to narrow-fronted properties. A minimum of 200 new street trees are planted each year and nature strip trees can be planted, free of charge, at the request of residents and the discretion of Council (matched against either a proposed species or Council’s list of preferred species).

Native plants are seen as preferable largely for environmental reasons (habitat, water retention in upper catchment, drought tolerant, often less maintenance, better soil stabilisation) and because of their contribution to developing a local landscape character that is authentically Australian.

Nonetheless, it is also recognised that on occasions exotic trees may be the only suitable choice in particular planting situations —especially in heritage areas, commercial zones and in instances where issues of solar access need to be considered.

Waverley Council’s new Tree Management Plan

The Waverley Council Tree Management Plan Policy / Appendices has been prepared to provide a framework for the management of all trees within the Waverley Local Government Area for the next ten years. The Street Tree Masterplan is a framework for management of street trees in particular.

Parks & Trees/Council Trees