Tree felling begins at Williamson Park

Williamson Park in Whangamata has been a hive of activity this week as work begins in earnest on the upgrade to one of the best and most-loved reserves in the Coromandel.

Old pine trees are being felled and landscaping work is beginning on the beachfront where a boardwalk is being built.

We're asking people to stay out of the park for at least the next four weeks because heavy machinery will be operating all day.

"It is very enticing to get in there and pick up pine cones or cut a limb or two for firewood but we are asking people to refrain from entering the park as it is dangerous, even when the contractors have departed for the day" says Whangamata Area Manager Garry Towler.

"We have an arrangement with Whangamata Lions Club where we will be transporting firewood and pinecones to the industrial area of town. Lions members will cut up the wood and deliver it to the elderly and needy for free and any surplus will be sold to the general public.

"Watch for any announcements on our Council's Facebook page and our website as to when and where wood is available, but please do not go into Williamson Park for at least the next four weeks," says Mr Towler. You can also call our Customer Services line on 07 868 0200.

When the work is finished in time for next summer, replacement native trees will have been planted to replace the felled pines, the road will have been realigned to create more open space for big events, beach access will have been improved and carparking will have been redesigned to be safer and more convenient.

ends

© Scoop Media