Stage two pine tree removal and landscape revegetation plans for Binney Reserve get underway

The City of Ballarat will remove a large group of pine trees that are at the end of their life or in poor condition, in the second stage of planned tree removal works, at Binney Reserve in Black Hill later this month. 

The trees were assessed by an independent arborist in September 2020 and have been recommended for removal to minimise the risk to public safety. 

The arborist’s report found more than 60 per cent of the trees had structural issues that increased the risk of complete tree failure. This posed an unacceptable risk for the City of Ballarat and subsequently the trees were recommended for removal.  

Planted close together in a plantation arrangement, the trees have grown upwards quickly to compete for sunlight, leaving the trees with insufficient root mass - a contributing factor to complete tree failure. 

The report identified that the remaining trees would be at greater risk of falling over in high wind, without the protection of the other trees and without roots strong enough to withstand high wind. 

The first stage of pine tree removal was carried out in November 2021. The second stage was due to commence in August 2023 but was delayed due to nesting birds. The trees have been fenced for public safety since 2021. 

Once the removal works have been completed, the City of Ballarat’s Parks and Gardens team will then work to restore the soil and revegetate the site, before planting a mixture of indigenous vegetation and established trees, supported by the City of Ballarat’s regular maintenance program. 

Works to remove the trees will begin from Monday, 22 April and are expected to be completed early the following week, weather permitting. 

While the works are carried out, the tree removal area will remain closed, with traffic management in place for the safety of residents and contractors. 

City of Ballarat Director Infrastructure and Environment Bridget Wetherall said the revegetation and replanting works will reinvigorate Binney Reserve. 

“The planned removal and ongoing landscape revegetation plans will ensure the community can continue to enjoy Binney Reserve for generations to come while ensuring the safety of our residents,” she said.