FAQs
What work is happening on Elizabeth Street, Mount Victoria?
We are resurfacing the footpath, replacing the kerbs, raising the intersection at Austin Street, install a pedestrian curtesy ramp near the Elizabeth Street play area, and removing and installing 24 trees.
Where on Elizabeth Street will these works take place?
Between Brougham St and the dead end (up to 138 Elizabeth Street).
Why do we need to make these changeS?
The current utilities and infrastructure are being damaged by mature tree roots which is increasing safety hazards.
Have issues been previously raised about Elizabeth Street?
Since June 2019, the team have received over 75 complaints relating to multiple issues on Elizabeth Street. This includes tripping hazards, uneven footpaths, sump blockage, and tree trimming.
How many trees will you be removing as part of these upgrades?
24 trees will be removed and replaced by the same amount.
Will you remove any parking as part of these upgrades?
Yes, due to the tree gardens being constructed on the carriageway we will need to remove 21 Coupon car parks. The 22 Resident carparks will be unaffected apart from the relocation of 5 of them a few metres away from their current location. This is to accommodate the the gardens.
What type of trees will you be removing, and what will you replace them with?
The trees that will be removed are Fig, Olive, Japanese Camellia, Alder, Ash and Kowhai trees. They will be replaced by London Plane trees representing large trees and Magnolias representing medium trees.
Why can’t you install native trees instead?
Native trees are evergreen and do not fit the profile of the street. The London Planes and Magnolias are deciduous (sheds leaves annually) allowing sunshine through to houses in winter.
Can we preserve the trees? Or replant them somewhere else?
We can preserve only the two trees in the garden at the corner of Austin and Elizabeth Street as they are not affecting any services and we will try to manage the root spread when installing the new garden around them. Transplanting the trees have been deemed unfeasible due to the proximity to services and the prohibitive cost of $25,000 per tree.
Once removed, what will you do with the tree remains?
We can cut them smaller and donate them to residents or other interested stakeholders.
What damage have the trees done on Elizabeth Street?
Broken kerbs, uplifted footpath, powerline interference, underground service damage.
Are you making any other changes to the road?
No, the road layout will remain the same. A pedestrian curtesy crossing will be installed at the playground end. The Austin Street intersection will also be raised to promote safer pedestrian movement.
When would construction begin on Elizabeth Street?
We are aiming to start in July 2023.