Work to fell 14 pine trees at Smallbone Park reserve playground will begin on Monday

The Smallbone Park reserve playground will be closed for about three weeks. Photo / Google Maps

The Smallbone Park reserve playground will be closed for about three weeks while contractors work to remove 14 pine trees from the area.

Rotorua Lakes Council said some of the trees required significant maintenance work and there was some concern for public safety due to their proximity to the playground and the road.

The council decided it was more economical to remove the trees and replant with something more suitable to the area.

The tree removal work will start on Monday, September 24 and should take up to three weeks weather permitting.

During this time access to a section of the reserve and the playground will be closed to the public.

Signage will be in place notifying users to stay clear of the area.

Large machinery and vehicles will be operating within the gully so members of the public are being asked to follow all signage instruction for their own safety.

The council apologised for any inconvenience during this time.

FAQs:

Why are the trees being removed?
Some of the trees require significant maintenance that is likely to be ongoing in the future and quite costly. Because of their size, age and proximity to the playground and road there is also some concern for public safety. Other factors also include the leaf fall and shading created by the large trees.

Council has decided it is economical to remove the trees now and replant with something more suitable to the area.

Can I access the playground while work is taking place?
No. The playground and surrounding reserve area will be closed to public for approximately three weeks while contractors carry out the felling work. This will ensure the safety of users and also allow the contractors to complete the work as soon as practical.

What will happen to the wood?
The logs are being sold by the contractor to offset council's removal costs.

Will the trees be replaced?
Council's horticultural team has taken into consideration leaf fall, shading and potential future safety risks in choosing trees to replace those removed. Once work is complete and weather is favourable replanting will take place.