Big removal bill puts end to trees

This tree cluster on Esmonde Rd, Takapuna, will be cut down. Picture / Kenny Rodger

A $225,000 bill is too high to save a mature pohutukawa tree and phoenix palm in the way of a project to widen one of Takapuna's busiest streets, Esmonde Rd, says the North Shore City Council.

Takapuna residents had hoped the tree cluster could be shifted to a small park as part of the landscaping for the $7 million road-widening job that is scheduled to begin soon.

But the council, releasing the figures yesterday, reluctantly condemned the tree cluster to be chopped down.

"We can't justify spending almost a quarter of a million dollars on trying to move the tree cluster when its ongoing survival following relocation is by no means guaranteed," said Tony Barker, chairman of the council's infrastructure and environment committee.

Digging up the cluster and loading it onto a truck would alone cost nearly $100,000, he said.

"Four to five days of lane closures for city-bound traffic on Esmonde Rd, and the complete closure of the road on two consecutive nights, would considerably worsen congestion."

Removing the trees, which would take place in coming weeks, and managing any traffic issues would cost the council about $15,000 to $20,000.

The committee's deputy chairman, Chris Darby, said 100 more pohutukawa trees would be planted on both sides of Esmonde Rd.

The upgrade, due to be completed early next year, involves widening and landscaping Esmonde Rd between Lake Rd and the Assembly of God church.

Landscaping and lighting plans have been prepared in consultation with residents. Small parks will be established on the corner of Eldon St and on the southern corner of the Lake Rd intersection.


Tree relocation

* Direct costs $99,900
* Road closures $73,000
* Utility service relocation: $48,000
* Temporary accommodation for residents $5000
Total: $225,900

The Esmonde Rd upgrade
* Retains the number of existing traffic lanes
* Creates additional turning lanes to enhance flow for through-traffic
* Improves traffic safety through the introduction of raised median islands
* Incorporates cycle lanes in both directions