MEDIA RELEASE 24 JUNE 2008

Trees in Cathedral Square to be replaced

Work begins in Cathedral Square this week to replace two lime trees removed earlier this year.

The two 30 year-old trees, planted in boxes to commemorate the arrival of the first four ships to Christchurch, were removed because they were in decline and dangerous to the public, says Christchurch City Council City Arborist Shane Moohan.

“The trees had been planted on the old highly compacted road base course, which meant that the roots were unable to access enough nutrients and the planting pits did not drain efficiently which lead to water logged soils.”

To plant the new trees, the base course will need to be dug out, top soil laid and the new five to six-metre high trees planted.

“I apologise for any pedestrian inconvenience while the old road is dug up. It is important the planting bed for these trees is appropriately prepared before we re-plant the trees to give them the best chance of thriving,” Mr Moohan said.

“It is unsure how long this work will take, depending on the extent of the work required to remove the base course and prepare the ground.”

ENDS

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