FAQs
Why does this application require planning approval?
This tree is included on the City’s ‘Significant Tree’ list, which is also reflected on a notification on the title of the property. Therefore, in accordance with Clause 4.18 of the City if Cockburn Town Planning Scheme No. 3, planning approval is required prior to the removal, destruction and/or interference with the tree.
What will be considered in the assessment process?
The application is being assessed against the City’s Heritage Conservation Design Guidelines - Local Planning Policy 4.4 (LPP 4.4). LPP 4.4 provides the following with regards to the removal of a Significant Tree:
“The removal of a Significant Tree will only be supported where it is necessary to protect public safety or private or public property from imminent danger and the onus is on the applicant to demonstrate that this is the case. This may require the submission of a report prepared by a suitably qualified arborist.”
The City is assessing the safety of the tree, the impact the tree has on the amenity of the owner/occupier of the subject site as well as the surrounding property owners/ occupiers, and the impact the tree has on the structural integrity of the dwelling. The application submitted includes an arborist report, which is subject to the City’s assessment.
What should my submission include?
The City’s Planning Services is assessing the amenity impact of the proposed removal of the Norfolk pine tree on the surrounding properties, residents and workers day to day lives. You are welcome to provide your thoughts on the the impact the proposed removal of the Norfolk pine tree will have on you as an individual.
How will my feedback be used?
The City will objectively assess all submissions and provide a summary of submissions in the form of a report, which will be presented to Council at Ordinary Council Meeting. The submissions will form part of the council report and will be considered in the assessment and determination of the application.
Who will make the final decision?
The application will be determined at the next available Ordinary Council Meeting. At this stage, the City expects the application to be considered at the November meeting.
What is the Significant Tree List?
Significant Trees means trees that are included on the Significant Tree List (contained within the Local Government Inventory) for their significance, which includes characteristics such as outstanding aesthetic significance, horticultural value, historic value, and/or unique location or context. The Local Government Inventory is a register that identifies the places and areas that are of cultural heritage significance in the local area. It includes the City of Cockburn's 'Significant Tree' list, which are trees listed for their cultural heritage significance. The Local Government Inventory Heritage List Significant Tree List 2021 can be viewed here.
Why is this tree on the Significant Tree List?
In 1995, Council supported the rezoning of the property to allow the construction of a 13 unit group housing site, on the proviso that the four Norfolk Pines were retained. Subsequently development and subdivision approval for the grouped dwellings required the retention and preservation of the four Norfolk Island Pines on the site. Between 1995 and 1996 the dwelling on the site was removed and the land was redeveloped with grouped dwellings, with the four Norfolk Island Pines incorporated into the common property and courtyard areas. You can view information about the Four Norfolk Pine Trees in the Document Library.
What happens to trees on the Significant Tree List?
Trees that are listed on the Significant Tree list require planning approval for their removal, as well as stricter controls for pruning and maintenance.