The proposed destruction of 30-40 mature trees at Austin Butler Reserve would appear to run counter to the Central Coast Greener Places Strategy May 2021 which advocates retention of “existing trees, in particular, mature canopies … that have a high replacement value and tree retention should be given precedence over removal.”
As I am sure you are aware, removing mature trees also means the destruction of mini-eco systems that cannot be replaced by planting young trees elsewhere.
I believe there are a range of potential alternative solutions to Woolworths’ car park expansion plans that would generate the same income for the Council as the one proposed – and where those funds could be used to “green the peninsula”, a known heat island.
I look forward to hearing that the Council decides to support its own Greening Strategy.
Email, Aug 29
Sue-Anne Stanford, Woy Woy