Residents of Cheltondale are dismayed after City Power and City Parks cut down a 30-year-old tree, and a 10-year-old was pruned in the suburb without giving a reason for doing so.
Residents complained because they were not consulted.
One of the residents, Tracy Ping, contacted North Eastern Tribune and said the trees were significant to the community because of the number of years they had been there.
Ping requested the Tribune help find answers after the two entities were contacted on 7 July and no answers were given.
“This is totally unacceptable. … it seems strange to me that the tree was cut down by City Power,” she said.
In addition to that, Ping said the privacy the trees provided has now gone.
When contacted, City Power referred all questions to City Parks spokesperson, Jenny Moodley, who had not responded to our questions by the time of going to print.
Ward 74 councillor David Fisher confirmed that this was brought to his attention and he is still waiting for detailed information. “I can confirm that a tree was cut down by City Parks and another pruned. They were assisted by City Power because of the overhead power lines and the correct official channels were followed,” said Fisher.
He added that he has asked for additional details and background around the need to take this action.
“I am very supportive of the natural heritage in Johannesburg. Joburg is proud to be known as the City that is a man-made forest. I encourage all residents to preserve this heritage.”
Fisher promised to provide an update once he has been informed of all the circumstances.
Details: David Fisher 082 822 6070.
Read: New master plan for Balfour Park precinct
Do you think it was fair the trees that were so significant to residents of Cheltondale were cut down without consulting the residents? Share your views on the North Eastern Tribune Facebook page
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