EDITOR – In response to the concern about the Jacaranda mimosifolia tree in Princess Alice Avenue, two aspects should be considered.
Firstly the tree in question is detailed as a Category 1b Listed Invasive Species that to quote “must be controlled”. This is referring to the spread of the species, so may we assume that the Parks Department will spend time under this tree so that all seed pods will be collected from this (and other specimens), and are destroyed? Is Mr Steele aware of this?
Secondly, Mr Steele seems to be concerned only with falling branches, and is oblivious to the angle of inclination of the main tree trunk.
Tree experts do not just “look” at a tree, they have means of testing the condition of the wood content.
As for this species being part of our urban forest, Pigeon Valley, around the corner from this specimen, has a wealth of original forest species. Such species could be suitable replacements for Jacarandas.
To mention the pruning efforts of the contractors used locally and especially at Manor Gardens is not good news. Their efforts display complete incompetence.
Phyllis Jenkins
Glenwood
