New trees will be planted to replace the approximately 80 plane trees being removed from Gair and Barry Avenues in Cromwell, after Council agreed today to a replanting plan. Approximately 80 trees will go in as close as practicable to where the old ones stood, with planting expected in winter 2028.
The existing trees were planted around 1984, before the surrounding streets were subdivided and driveways were built. Council agreed in April to remove them and repair the footpaths, and the Cromwell Community Board recommended the replanting at its September meeting.
The replacements will be fastigiate (narrow growing) deciduous trees, such as columnar maple, fastigiate hornbeam, fastigiate beech, and Chinese pistacia. They have smaller leaves and canopies, and roots that behave better near footpaths and driveways.
The street may take time to regain its leafy avenue look, and that will depend on how well the new trees establish.
"We know people value the tree-lined feel of Gair Avenue. We'll plant as close to the original spots as we can and talk with neighbours where appropriate about where each tree goes," said Parks and Recreation Manager Gordon Bailey.
Funding of $100,000 for the trees is included in year one of the draft 2027–37 Long-term Plan, but Council agreed to an overspend from reserves to allow trees to be ordered soon. As per Council tree policy, a further 80 trees will be planted at an alternative location, yet to be determined.
The existing trees will be removed in May 2027.
