Gair Avenue trees to be removed following safety concerns
The Cromwell Community Board has recommended the removal of approximately 80 London Plane trees along Gair Avenue and Barry Avenue in Cromwell, citing ongoing safety risks and significant damage to infrastructure.
The recommendation, made at the Board’s 7 April meeting, will now be considered by Council as part of the 2026/27 Annual Plan process.
The trees have caused extensive root damage over several years, resulting in uneven footpaths, trip hazards, mobility challenges, and impacts on neighbouring properties. Council received a number of service requests and community feedback raising safety concerns about the damage caused by the trees.
Since 2018, more than $62,000 has been spent on footpath repairs, with a further 685 square metres of footpath identified as needing work. These issues continue to reoccur despite maintenance.
Cromwell Community Board Chair Anna Harrison said the decision was not taken lightly.
“We recognise these trees are a valued part of Gair Avenue and contribute to the character of the area. However, the level of damage and ongoing safety risks mean we need to act in the best interests of the wider community.”
This decision to remove the trees revokes the Cromwell Community Board’s earlier August 2025 resolution to undertake community consultation, reflecting updated technical and financial evidence that indicates removal is the only viable option.
Further analysis since 2025 has shown the long-term cost of retaining the trees, including root management and continued repairs, could range from $380,000 to $535,000. In comparison, removal and replacement is estimated at around $350,000 and provides a more sustainable long-term solution.
Roading Manager Paul Fleet said the underlying issue could not be resolved through maintenance alone.
“These are large, mature trees in a constrained environment, and their root systems are continuing to impact surrounding infrastructure. While repairs can address symptoms in the short term, they don’t fix the cause.”
While Council’s Tree Policy generally supports consultation for large-scale removals, it also allows for removal where infrastructure damage, safety risks, and cost outweigh the benefits of retention.
In this case, the Cromwell Community Board determined that consulting on an option that is not financially viable or deliverable would not be appropriate.
If approved by Council, the works would include removal of the trees and repairs to the damaged footpaths, improving accessibility and safety for residents.
The Board has also directed staff to prepare a replanting plan, with funding to be considered through the 2027–2037 Long-term Plan. Any future planting would use more suitable species designed for urban environments, including measures to prevent similar issues.
The recommendation will now be referred to Council for a final decision at their meeting on 29 April.
