A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.
Having seen at least two articles in this paper about the detrimental properties of silver birch trees, and that they should really not be anywhere near urban areas, I now wish to ask the GDC through this column why action has not been taken following numerous complaints about five offending
silver birch trees in the Emily Street reserve. The elderly adjacent neighbours have endured years of month-on-end infestation of seeds and leaves, apart from the undoubtable health issues which this species create. Unbelievably, a survey was distributed in the area — at probably great expense — to gauge how neighbours feel about removal of such pest trees, despite it being well known that they are banned in many cities.
What does it take to make people’s lives a bit better through removal of such useless and nuisance-creating trees? If the survey resulted in few replies, is that the end of the issue? Do people have to move to eliminate the stress?
Yes, it was a “crying shame” that many specimen trees were removed when the council buildings were demolished, but not a word mentioned! I would be interested to know if others have issues with silver birches.
Chainsaw Operator
