Greening the CBD

Council staff recently transplanted palm trees from the Laings Rd/High St intersection, moving them to Bloomfield Tce, where they will provide some interest to new and existing trees against the backdrop of the Westfield complex.

The palms have made way for young alders and elms, whose eventual height, and green and leafy foliage (turning russet in the autumn) will provide a nicer contrast to the predominantly grey buildings in the area.

Colin Lunn, who manages the council’s green assets, says the new plantings are the start of a long-term plan for “greening” the CBD.

Tree species have been carefully selected for their lively colours, eye-appeal and ability to thrive in urban conditions, and you will start to see more of them around the CBD. One such area is around Laings Rd/High St, where the new trees are complemented by new footpath seating. It’s all aimed at encouraging pedestrians to linger and enjoy the ambiance.

Gardens will also be getting makeovers, and some bedding gardens will be replaced with more appropriate plantings that provide colour and interest all year round. Longer-living plants are more sustainable and do away with having to replace the beds every six months.

While the changes are mostly low-key, feedback from the public and retailers has already been positive, says Colin. “It won’t happen overnight, but the CBD will be a lot greener and more pleasant over time.”