Moreland Street Landscape
Strategy
2012-2022
Adopted 8 August 2012
About this document
This document is the Street Landscape Strategy for the City of Moreland. The Strategy has
been prepared by Homewood Consulting in conjunction with Moreland City Council. This
document has been broadly based on the 1997 Street Landscape Strategy.
Acknowledgements
Moreland City Council acknowledges the traditional owners of the land, the Kulin Nation, of
which the local indigenous people are the Wurrundjeri.
Council is committed to building a trusting, collaborative and supportive relationship with
indigenous groups, and to respecting identified Aboriginal sacred sites and special places.
Project manager: Clare Johnston, Open Space Planner & Design Officer
Contributions by Moreland City Councillors, Council officers, particularly the arborists, and
members of the Sustainable Moreland Advisory Group, and the community are gratefully
acknowledged.
2
Contents
1.
Executive summary ....................................................................................................... 6
2.
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 7
2.1
3.
4.
Previous Plans .......................................................................................................... 7
The Vision and Objectives ............................................................................................ 8
3.1
The Vision ................................................................................................................ 8
3.2
Goals ........................................................................................................................ 8
3.3
Objectives ................................................................................................................. 8
The value of street trees and vegetation...................................................................... 9
4.1 Implications of climate change ................................................................................ 10
4.1.1
Climate amelioration ...................................................................................... 13
4.1.1
Human health ................................................................................................ 14
4.2
Stormwater management and Water Sensitive Urban Design ................................ 15
4.3
Landscape values ................................................................................................... 16
4.4 Heritage values ....................................................................................................... 16
4.5 Habitat values ......................................................................................................... 16
4.5.1
Habitat Corridors ........................................................................................... 17
4.5.1
Buffer Zones .................................................................................................. 18
4.6 Social benefits ........................................................................................................ 21
4.7
5.
Economic benefits .................................................................................................. 21
Physical context .......................................................................................................... 22
5.1 Location .................................................................................................................. 22
5.2 Geology and Soils................................................................................................... 22
5.2.1
General description ....................................................................................... 22
5.2.2
Implications for Tree Growth .......................................................................... 25
6.
Street Landscape Planning & Programs .................................................................... 27
6.1
Road and Footpath Hierarchy ................................................................................. 27
6.2
Streetscape Master Planning for Activity Centres ................................................... 27
6.3
Retail Precincts....................................................................................................... 28
6.4 Main Roads and Gateways ..................................................................................... 29
6.4.1
Implementation progress ............................................................................... 29
6.4.2
Gateway treatments....................................................................................... 29
6.5
Principal Pedestrian Network and Pedestrian Capital Works Program .................... 32
6.6 Residential Streets.................................................................................................. 33
6.6.1
Moreland 10 year Capital Works Road & Footpath Reconstruction Program . 33
6.6.2
Street Tree Infill Program ............................................................................... 33
7.
Management of the street tree population ................................................................. 34
7.1
7.2
Street Tree Inventory .............................................................................................. 34
Street Tree Preservation ......................................................................................... 34
3
7.2.1
Significant Tree Criteria ................................................................................. 35
7.3 Tree removal .......................................................................................................... 36
7.3.1
Tree amenity value formula ........................................................................... 37
7.4 In-fill planting .......................................................................................................... 37
7.5 Protection of existing street trees during development/construction ........................ 38
7.5.1
Protection and maintenance of the tree population ........................................ 38
7.5.2
Compensation for Tree damage .................................................................... 38
7.6
Competing Infrastructure and Services ................................................................... 38
8.
Community Notification and Consultation ................................................................ 39
8.1.1
Notification..................................................................................................... 39
8.1.2
Consultation .................................................................................................. 40
9.
Implementation ............................................................................................................ 41
9.1
Priorities for Street Landscape Works ..................................................................... 41
9.2
Actions.................................................................................................................... 42
References .......................................................................................................................... 45
Appendix 1 .......................................................................................................................... 46
The Manual ...................................................................................................................... 46
1.1
Introduction ............................................................................................................. 46
1.2 Design Principles and Guidelines ........................................................................... 46
1.2.1
Function......................................................................................................... 47
1.2.2
Appearance ................................................................................................... 47
1.2.3
Horticulture .................................................................................................... 47
1.2.4
Community education and communication .................................................... 47
1.2.5
Planting Design ............................................................................................. 48
1.3 Planting Guidelines ................................................................................................. 48
1.3.1
Nature strip – Regular Planting ...................................................................... 48
1.3.2
Nature strip – Mosaic planting ....................................................................... 50
1.3.3
Footpath Cut-out Planting .............................................................................. 51
1.3.4
Parking Lane Island or Cut-out Planting......................................................... 55
1.3.5
Median Planting ............................................................................................. 58
1.3.6
Roundabout Planting ..................................................................................... 59
1.3.7
Flexibility........................................................................................................ 60
Traffic Treatment – Kerb extension................................................................................... 61
1.3.8
Traffic Treatment – Roundabout .................................................................... 62
1.3.9
Traffic Treatment – Median planting .............................................................. 63
1.4 Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) .................................................................. 65
1.5 Engineering Considerations .................................................................................... 66
1.5.1
Safety ............................................................................................................ 66
1.5.2
Conflicts with hard landscape and street trees ............................................... 66
1.6 Matching Tree Size to Street Space ....................................................................... 68
1.6.1
The Street Tree Planting Space Matrix .......................................................... 68
1.6.2
Tree Size ....................................................................................................... 69
1.6.3
Overhead Services ........................................................................................ 69
1.6.4
Ground Level Space ...................................................................................... 69
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1.6.5
Canopy Space ............................................................................................... 70
1.7 Recommended Tree Species ................................................................................. 70
1.7.1
Species selection........................................................................................... 70
1.7.2
Species list and tree descriptions................................................................... 70
1.7.3
Provenance and Selections ........................................................................... 71
1.7.4
Tree Size ....................................................................................................... 71
1.7.5
Tree Planting and Establishment Methods ..................................................... 71
1.8
1.9
Tree Supply ............................................................................................................ 75
Tree Planting Details .............................................................................................. 75
1.10 Tree Establishment Maintenance Plan.................................................................... 76
Appendix 2 .......................................................................................................................... 79
Appendix 2 .......................................................................................................................... 79
Recommended Species list.............................................................................................. 79
1.12 Street Trees ............................................................................................................ 79
1.13 Groundcover species for traffic treatments ............................................................. 85
Appendix 3 .......................................................................................................................... 86
10. Removal policy ............................................................................................................ 86
10.1 Request for tree removal grievance procedure ....................................................... 86
10.1.1 Trees meeting Significant Tree criteria:.......................................................... 87
10.1.2 Trees not meeting Significant Tree criteria: .................................................... 87
10.1.3 Tree removal – Developments/Vehicle crossovers ........................................ 88
10.1.4 Unauthorised tree removal/damage ............................................................... 88
10.1.5 Pruning of nature strip trees........................................................................... 88
10.2 Amenity Value Formula – City of Melbourne ........................................................... 88
Appendix 4 .......................................................................................................................... 92
Nature strip Beautification Guidelines for general public .................................................. 92
3.1
3.2
Introduction ............................................................................................................. 92
Benefits of nature strips .......................................................................................... 92
3.3
Alternative vegetation to turf grass .......................................................................... 92
3.4 Design guidelines ................................................................................................... 92
3.4.1
Safety and access ......................................................................................... 92
3.4.2
Plant selection ............................................................................................... 93
3.4.3
Surface treatments ........................................................................................ 94
3.4.4
Maintenance .................................................................................................. 94
3.4.5
Approval process ........................................................................................... 95
Appendix 5 .......................................................................................................................... 96
5.1 Policy Context - Overview .......................................................................................... 96
5.1.1
Moreland Open Space Strategy ..................................................................... 96
5.1.2
Moreland Health and Wellbeing Plan ............................................................. 97
5.1.3
Pedestrian Strategy ....................................................................................... 98
5.1.4
Climate Action Plan ....................................................................................... 98
5.1.5
Integrated Water Management Plan .............................................................. 99
5.1.6
Roads, drainage and car parks ...................................................................... 99
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1. Executive summary
Moreland City Council’s ‘green’ street landscape is a significant asset to the local community
and to the environment. It offers many benefits to the health and wellbeing of our community.
The street landscape provides shade and shelter for street users, visually softens the built
landscape, creates wildlife habitat corridors, assists with stormwater management and
contributes to the mitigation of the urban heat island effect through evaporative cooling.
In the past decade there has been a significant decline in the street landscape character of
Moreland. The urban tree population has been affected by extended periods of below average
rainfall, inadequate protection of trees during construction and reduced space due to urban
consolidation. This decline has also been exacerbated by the absence of an up-to-date
functional street tree inventory to assist with the management and long term planning of
Moreland’s tree population.
To continue to improve Moreland’s liveability, Moreland City Council has committed to the vision
of the street landscape strategy to:
“To have an *Urban Forest that is attractive, sustainable, diverse and healthy, defines
neighbourhood character and provides a pleasant and healthy environment for the community
to live and work.”
*The definition of an Urban Forest in a Moreland Street Landscape Strategy context is a continuum of
connected green streets linking public parklands and private spaces throughout the City.
The goals of the strategy are to:






Create a pleasant living, walking and cycling environment
Focus resources on the planning, implementation, protection, conservation and
development of high quality street landscapes
Provide habitat corridors for native fauna and insects that link waterways and open
space and provide opportunities for fauna to move around Moreland and adjoining
municipalities
Establish ecologically sustainable design principles and planting themes
Assist in adapting our city to climate change
Mitigate the urban heat island effect
The following are included in this document to provide staff with both practical and policy
assistance to gain a consistent approach to managing the street landscape:
 A technical manual which provides consistent approaches/technical drawings to assist
staff with developing the street landscape
 A Tree Removal Policy, which provides a clear process on managing requests for street
tree removal
A Nature strip Beautification guideline, which provides guidance on what is appropriate to plant
on a nature strip and the process to enable improvements to nature strips. Annual funding of
the street tree infill program as well as capital funding for larger green infrastructure modification
projects will be required to enable the street landscape to be fully realised and to provide
greatest benefits to the community and the environment. External funding, particularly for the
Structure Plan areas, will also be sought to supplement the overall ‘greening’ of Moreland.
Moreland has the opportunity to improve its environment. The Street Tree Strategy will assist in
providing relief from the continuing urbanisation and assist in reducing the heat island effect so
that the community can continue to live in a healthy, active and pleasant place.
6
2. Introduction
Moreland City Council’s ‘green’ street landscape is a significant asset to the local community
and to the environment. Important benefits of urban vegetation include the provision of shade
and shelter for street users, cooling that may assist with mitigation of the urban heat island
effect, visual softening of the built landscape, contribution to stormwater management and
provision of wildlife habitat corridors and generally creating a ‘green’ aspect to our otherwise
built-up environment encouraging people to walk and cycle our streets.
In the past decade there has been a decline in the street landscape character of Moreland. The
urban trees have been affected by extended periods of below average rainfall, reduced space
due to urban consolidation, tree loss from road/footpath upgrades, resident requests for removal
and lower numbers of replacement trees and generally poor survival rates of new tree stock.
This has been exacerbated by the absence of a real time functional street tree inventory to
assist with the management of the tree population.
Protecting and expanding Moreland’s urban forest is critical in managing the impacts of climate
change and urban growth, and ensuring that Moreland remains a healthy and enjoyable place
for people to live and work, as well as support our fauna.
The vision for the street landscape strategy aligns with key Council strategy documents
including: Health and Wellbeing Plan, Climate Action Plan, Pedestrian Strategy, Open Space
Strategy, Line Clearance Management Plan and Integrated Water Management Plan. A
summary of the policy context is provided in Appendix 5 of this document. The strategy will
provide guidance to ensure Moreland’s street landscape is sustainable, coordinated and
attractive into the future.
2.1
Previous Plans
The first Moreland Street Landscape Strategy (MSLS) was prepared under a recommendation
from the 1996 Moreland Open Space Strategy (MOSS). Council endorsed the MSLS in 1997 as
a 20-year plan for greening Moreland’s streets. This strategy was noted throughout Australia for
its highly innovative position on the use of indigenous plants. More than 30 tree species were
selected for use in Moreland streets, and over half of these were native to Australia although not
indigenous species.
While many good results were achieved under the guidance of the 1997 MSLS, problems with
tree performance due to a short period of implementation and community acceptance were
encountered. Many of the indigenous species selected for the original strategy proved to be
inappropriate or exhibited mixed performance. Indigenous trees selected for their local
provenances are not horticultural selections with known performance in urban situations.
A review of the MSLS was undertaken in 2003 and a new strategy was endorsed for the period
between 2004 and 2009. This strategy had a broader focus than the 1997 MSLS and as a result
lacked detail in terms of landscape treatment types, species selection and resources required.
7
3. The Vision and Objectives
3.1
The Vision
The vision for the Moreland Street Landscape Strategy is:
“To have an *Urban Forest that is attractive, sustainable, diverse and healthy, defines
neighbourhood character and provides a pleasant environment for the community to live and
work.”
*The definition of an Urban Forest in a Moreland Street Landscape Strategy context is a continuum of
connected green streets (primarily street trees and traffic treatment plantings) linking public parklands and
private spaces throughout the City.
3.2
Goals
This Strategy builds on the previous Moreland Street Landscape Strategies and will have six
significant goals. The Strategy will:

Create a pleasant living, walking and cycling environment

Focus resources on the planning, implementation, protection, conservation and
development of street landscapes

Provide habitat corridors for native fauna and insects that link waterways and open space
and provide opportunities for fauna to move around Moreland and adjoining municipalities

Establish ecologically sustainable design principles and planting themes

Assist in adapting our city to climate change

Mitigate the urban heat island effect
3.3
Objectives
Objectives in preparing the strategy have been to:

Reduce the temperature of the urban environment through increasing the total canopy
cover and density of the street tree population by planting 5000 trees per annum and
maximising the expected useful life expectancy of the existing tree population to ensure
continuity of the Moreland tree population

Improve the quality of street landscapes and the image of the municipality by choosing the
appropriate tree for the neighbourhood character and purpose of the tree planting

Ensure a diverse palette of species is used across the municipality to assist in managing
pest and disease threats

Develop and implement procedures to protect the tree population during infrastructure
upgrades/development

Provide an effective process for controlling, reviewing and refining the management of
street landscapes to maximise the urban forest

Prioritise street tree planting along designated pedestrian routes, and key shared path
routes to provide a shady, sheltered environment for pedestrians and cyclists

Incorporate water sensitive urban design (WSUD) into street landscapes to improve water
quality and slow water runoff by reducing sediment loads on the creeks
8

Develop a prioritised municipal wide planting plan, including the implementation of
consistent avenues, habitat corridors and buffer zones to ensure a consistent approach to
tree and landscape treatment planting across the municipality is achieved

Research, trial and monitor performance of street trees and review

Review plant palette to ensure emerging weed species are not being planted and check the
performance of the plants to ensure they are performing under the current climate
conditions. In cases where this has occurred implement the appropriate controls to
eliminate potential outbreaks

Fund the planting of 5000 trees annually and ensure adequate funds are provided to
manage and maintain a vibrant sustainable urban forest in a sustainable and healthy
manner

Provide a framework with a municipality wide view of street landscape management and a
process for achieving long term vision for the greening of the municipality

Develop a tree asset management system linked to spatial data to document all street
trees and to assist in the recording of individual works mitigation of risk, and planning and
management of the continued growth and continuity of Moreland’s urban forest
4. The value of street trees and vegetation
Trees in urban landscapes provide many environmental, health and economic benefits (Table
1). The Moreland Street Landscape Strategy aims to create a large urban forest that will
perform well under future climate conditions and therefore maximise the benefits provided to the
environment and the community. Urban trees and streetscapes are worth much more than they
cost and they are the key to urban sustainability. They provide opportunities to ameliorate the
heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff, provide shade and reduce energy use (Moore
2009).
There are three origins of trees included in the tree planting palette for Moreland.

Indigenous species – trees which grow naturally in Moreland;

Native – trees which grow naturally in Australia; and

Exotic – trees from countries other than Australia.
Planting the right tree for the location will be the general philosophy behind trees species
selection. This will be done with a focus on achieving the best possible outcome in terms of
providing a long lived and large canopied urban forest for the Moreland Community. Existing
character of streets, heritage values and functional requirements of street trees will be the key
selection criteria. Where possible indigenous trees will be planted as street trees, particularly
within the creek buffers and the habitat corridors. It should be noted that some of the habitat
corridors link through heritage areas with existing street character and that these should be
preserved.
Council supports using indigenous and native trees in street plantings wherever appropriate. A
broader palette of species is required to ensure a functional and successful urban forest is
achieved and will continue to research and trial indigenous tree species. Urban forest, in the
context of Moreland street landscapes, is a term used to describe all desirable vegetation in
urban areas including street trees, shrub plantings, grassed areas, and traffic treatment
plantings. The scope of this strategy is confined to vegetation in the street landscape.
Table 1. Some general and specific benefits of urban trees (Adapted from Moore, 1997).
Category
Particular benefit of street trees
Climate amelioration

Shade
9
Category
Particular benefit of street trees
Human health
Landscape values
Environmental values
and amelioration
Conservation values
Economic benefits
Horticultural values
4.1

Temperature modification

Humidifying the air

Shelter from the wind

Reduced runoff

Filtration of polluted air

Lower peak summer air temperatures

Encourage active forms of transport – walking and cycling

Human psychological health

A sense of scale

Softening of the built landscape

Linking and unifying landscapes

An emphasis to seasonal changes

Variety of colour, form, texture and pattern

Protecting waterways

Links to areas of natural significance (waterways, parklands)

Fixing of carbon dioxide

Production of oxygen

Purifying the air

Habitat Value

Maintain wildlife habitat

Conserve genetic resources

Increased property values

Increased shopping activity

Carbon balance benefits

Good Useful Life Expectancy

Tolerance to Drought

Tolerance to low Soil Oxygen

Tolerance to pollution

Tolerance to Pruning

Tolerance to root disturbance

Tolerance to soil compaction
Implications of climate change
Urban forests like all ecosystems will be affected by climate changes that include increases in
global air temperatures, increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, changes in the
patterns and amounts of annual precipitation, more frequent and intense storms and changes in
the frequency and severity of wildfires (IPCC, 2007). However, it is difficult to predict the impact
that these change might have on trees growing in cities.
10
The most significant factors likely to impact on species making up urban forests are increased
temperatures, changes to rainfall patterns, greater storm intensities and droughts. In some
places the impacts of severe storms and altered fire frequencies, particularly in peri-urban
areas, will be profound (Moore, 2011). The impacts of climate change on urban forests will not
be uniform on either a national or global scale, which will make decisions related to planning
and managing urban forests difficult as there will be few, if any, approaches that will apply
globally, across a continent or across a nation.
11
Table 2 lists some implications on the management of the urban forest during climate change
which should be relevant to Moreland.
While there is good reason for concern over the impacts that climate change might have on
urban forest tree species, there are also reasons for optimism. Many species that are widely
planted in cities are renowned for their wide tolerance ranges and they should cope with the
level of changes in temperatures and rainfall that are projected for many cities.
Other common urban trees come from populations that have wide and extensive natural
distributions. Careful provenance selection and breeding, which source specimens growing on
appropriate soils but from lower rainfall or warmer regions should ensure that there are suitable
intraspecific selections to meet urban planting demands. Even if species’ ranges are limited,
there may be the option of selecting different species from within a genus. This is the case with
the genera, Eucalyptus and Acacia within Australia, where there are large numbers of related
species occupying a broad range of habitats.
For many species higher temperatures will allow more rapid establishment and growth if water
is available. Rapid tree establishment would be an advantage in many cities, provided efficient
irrigation was available if required during establishment.
Frost sensitive species may be grown more widely and easily. For species with temperature
dependent fruit or seed set, higher temperatures may result in trees that flower but which do not
produce fruits and seeds which might be a nuisance.
12
Table 2. Simplified decision matrix for managing trees in the urban forest during climate change
Species
Characteristics
Tolerance of
Higher
Temperature
Tolerance of
Likely Impact of
Drought or
Climate Change
Lower Rainfall
Management
Implications
Widely dispersed
over a broad range
High
High
Low
Select propagation
material from appropriate
provenance
Restricted range
Low
Low
High
Monitor performance and
consider related species
with tolerance of warmer,
drier conditions
Drought prone
High
Low
High
May only survive if
irrigated. Not
recommended.
Drought resistance
Low
High
Moderate
Grow in shaded, cooler
parts of cities
Seed set
Low
Moderate
Moderate
May be an advantage
when fruits or seeds are
problematic in cities
Photosynthetic rate Moderate
Moderate
Low
May be an advantage
with higher establishment
and growth rates. Could
be enhanced with
irrigation
Respiratory rate
High
Moderate
Moderate
Enhanced tree
establishment and growth
through efficient irrigation
Transpiration rate
High
Low
High
May only survive if
irrigated
Frost sensitive
when young
Moderate-High
Moderate
Low
Small, young trees may
be grown without
protection from frost
There will be winners and losers among commonly planted urban trees species. In the fourteen
year period of below average rainfall and above average temperatures experienced in south
eastern Australia (1997-2010), many older conifers such as Pinus radiata and Cupressus
macrocarpa died and urban populations of Platanus x acerifolia were deleteriously affected.
Both Australian native and exotic species will be affected by climate change.
4.1.1
Climate amelioration
Trees and other urban vegetation can ameliorate climate at a local scale. Temperatures in
cities are usually higher than in surrounding undeveloped areas. This is termed the Urban Heat
Island effect and is due in part to the thermal characteristics of built surfaces, objects that
produce heat such as cars and industry and less evaporative cooling in cities due to the
removal of stormwater. Street trees and other vegetation can help to mitigate urban warmth
through local cooling due to shading and more significantly by transpiration of water from their
leaves.
The hotter areas of the municipality can be identified by thermal imaging. Priority tree planting
in these hotter areas should assist with mitigating the urban heat island effect.
The urban forest can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and assist with the mitigation of future
climate change. Street trees can sequester carbon. By shading buildings, street trees may
13
reduce the amount of air conditioning used for cooling during summer. By making streets more
pleasant, trees can encourage walking, cycling and the use of public transport, all lower carbon
emission forms of transport.
It is difficult to predict the impact that climate change might have on trees growing in Moreland
streets. Street tree species are likely to experience increased temperatures, changes to rainfall
patterns, greater storm intensities and droughts.
4.1.1
Human health
A reduction in the peak summer air temperature associated with vegetation can have important
human health benefits. Periods of extreme air temperatures have been associated with
increased levels of human mortality, particularly amongst vulnerable groups within the
community. It is predicted that climate change will result in more hot weather. So, cooling
Moreland will become even more critical in the future. Targeted irrigation of street trees and
other vegetation prior to periods of extreme hot weather could be an effective method of
benefiting from this cooling process. Landscapes that are designed to treat stormwater, such as
biofiltration systems, could provide a practical system for increasing evapotranspiration within
Moreland during very hot weather.
According to research undertaken by Monash University, the adverse health effects of heat
waves under current climate conditions are largely preventable if heat-health action plans can
be implemented (Loughnan, Nicholls & Tapper 2008).
The ‘Hot Spots Project’ undertaken by Monash University developed a map showing areas
with high – low vulnerability across Melbourne. Five key indicators were identified: areas
with large numbers of aged care facilities; areas with families speaking a language other
than English at home; areas where elderly people live alone; suburban areas rather than
high-density inner suburbs, and areas with a high number of elderly and very young
citizens.
The research found that the greatest effects of hot weather are seen in the elderly but
effects are also apparent for adults and children. This can be exacerbated by poor building
design and urban planning resulting in high density housing with limited green space. A
map of the weighted vulnerability index demonstrates a clear picture of increased
vulnerability shown as orange to red on Figure 1. Moreland is one of the municipalities with
the high decile score in the inner urban area.
14
Fig 1: A map of the statistical district of Melbourne showing the weighted vulnerability index for
each POA: (Australian Postal Area) from Loughnan, Nicholls & Tapper 2008.
Rates of skin cancer are high in Australia (according to the Department of Health 1 in 2
Australians will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime). The shade provided by street
trees can assist in protection against skin cancer.
Urban trees also offer other indirect human health benefits. Tree lined streets are more
attractive and more shaded during the hotter times of the year. Such pleasant streetscapes can
promote active forms of transport. Moreland encourages walking and cycling within the
municipality as physical activity is linked to improved health. Priority pedestrian routes have
been mapped as part of the structure plans for the Activity Centres and the Principal Pedestrian
Network Program for Moreland. Street landscaping should be prioritised to compliment these
designated routes.
4.2
Stormwater management and Water Sensitive Urban Design
Stormwater management is an important environmental value that streets trees and vegetation
can deliver. Urban vegetation can play a key role in mitigating the effects of stormwater on local
waterways. Directing stormwater to vegetated landscapes can help to restore more natural
hydrological patterns in cities. Water infiltration into the soil and water loss to the atmosphere
via transpiration is increased and therefore less stormwater runoff is generated and discharged
to waterways. These systems can also reduce the amount of nutrients (nitrogen and
phosphorus) and sediment entering Moonee Ponds and Merri Creek. Reducing the nitrogen
load entering Port Phillip Bay is important for the health of the Bay.
Street trees can be an important component of water sensitive urban design systems.
Opportunities to distribute stormwater to street trees by either simple passive irrigation systems
or more highly engineered biofilters or rain garden systems, should be explored throughout
Moreland City Council.
As climate changes, the impact of vegetation on stormwater runoff could provide large savings
in terms of infrastructure costs in Moreland. Trees hold rainwater on their canopies which can
be evaporated back into the atmosphere, and through transpiration significantly reduce the
amount of water entering drains.
15
4.3
Landscape values
Landscape values are another benefit of street trees. They provide a sense of human scale and
soften the built landscape. Trees can also reinforce the character of a streetscape and visually
link areas.
Consistent planting themes within streets enhance the street landscape character (2). Many
residential streetscapes within Moreland contain an eclectic combination of street trees. It is
anticipated that the street tree inventory being undertaken will provide an assessment of the
condition of the trees, a description of the planting site and recommend a planting approach for
each street.
Figure 2: A consistent avenue of trees enhances the street landscape character
4.4
Heritage values
Street trees can play a conservation role in cities from a heritage perspective. There are a
small number of mature avenues of exotic trees including Planes and Elms in the municipality
that were planted at a similar time to the house construction. These avenues add to the built
heritage character of the street and should be preserved.
4.5
Habitat values
Moreland City Council contains environmentally significant areas, in particular local creeks and their
surrounding environs. Protection of remnant vegetation and habitat enhancement to encourage insect,
bird and animal populations is important. The Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) applies to both
the Merri Creek and environs (includes Edgars, Merlynston and Campbellfield Creeks) and the Moonee
Ponds Creek and environs (includes Westbreen Creek) (
16
Figure 3). The street landscapes within the bounds of this overlay should focus on
strengthening and protecting the environmental significance. Planting indigenous species of
local provenance within streetscapes helps to conserve genetic resources.
Figure 3: Environmental Significance Overlay
4.5.1
Habitat Corridors
Street tree plantings can encourage nature in streets and provide links and expand areas of
natural habitat for insects, birds and small mammals. Five east-west nature corridors were
17
identified in the 1997 Street Landscape Strategy. Further linking opportunities also exist and
additional habitat corridors could be considered (Figure 4). One action of the Moreland Open
Space Strategy (see Appendix 5) is to identify habitat corridors and nominate appropriate
streetscape species to provide links between the existing creek and railway corridors. It is
important to provide habitat corridor links to open space areas too. Parks offer the best
opportunity to grow a range of indigenous plant species, and these plantings and the
juxtaposition of natural formations with the regular plantings of the streets will contribute to the
richness of Moreland’s urban design.
4.5.1
Buffer Zones
Moreland City Council is bounded by the Merri Creek to the east and the Moonee Ponds Creek
to the west. Buffer zones have been created adjacent to these important natural areas to guide
the selection of species and planting types within the streetscapes of these areas (Figure 5).
The use of indigenous species sourced from local provenance is preferred in the habitat
corridors and buffer zones. The use of native species in these areas may also be appropriate.
Caution must be exercised if planting non local species in these areas to prevent hybridisation
with indigenous populations. It is acknowledged that these streets may have existing planting of
exotic tree species and some contain significant avenues which perform a habitat function. It is
not recommended that these species be removed as part of this strategy.
Species with weed potential or a tendency to sucker should not be planted in the buffer zones.
A list of species that this applies to is provided in Appendix 1 (Section 1.7):
18
Figure 4: Existing and proposed habitat corridors
-
19
Figure 5: Creek buffer zones
20
4.6
Social benefits
Understanding the importance of street trees, and generally green landscaping in an urban
environment is critical to ensuring the health and wellbeing of our community. Research has
shown that trees, as well as other landscape plantings, provide the community with a crucial
connection to nature in an urban environment. Providing a green, treed streetscape can
encourage people out into the streets to walk and cycle, and allow people to interact more with
others which create stronger social relationships. It can be essential in encouraging children to
play outside as they feel safe and less anxious in a pleasant environment as compared to a
hard surfaced, noisy, car congested street. Overseas research has also shown the trees have
a positive effect on people experiencing stress and anxiety and the presence of trees has a
calming effect on children suffering from Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) (Taylor, Kuo, Sullivan,
2003).
4.7
Economic benefits
In addition to economic savings associated with health and environmental benefits, street trees
provide additional economic values. Tree lined streets have been found to increase property
values and also increase shopping activity in retail areas.
While some values, such as landscape value and conservation are difficult to quantify, others
such as climatic and environmental amelioration and economic benefits are not difficult to value
in dollar terms.
As climate changes, the impact of vegetation on stormwater runoff could save billions of dollars
in infrastructure costs to Australia’s cities. It is not economic to retrofit larger stormwater drains
and alter the levels at which they enter waterways, but trees hold rainwater on their canopies,
and through transpiration significantly reduce the amount of water entering drains.
Mature trees in Moreland are significant assets to the environment and society. A great deal of
effort has gone into establishing, managing, conserving and preserving them. They are
community assets in every sense. Society has invested resources in their establishment and
management, and they have matured as assets and are providing many and diverse benefits to
society in return (Moore, 1997). Studies have also shown that street trees, and a well planted
street, can add up to 30 percent to property prices.
The value of urban trees is likely to increase in the future under a changed climate. The
benefits trees offer in terms of air temperature cooling, stormwater management and providing
more shaded and aesthetically appealing streetscapes to encourage people to walk and cycle is
significant.
21
5. Physical context
The physical context maps the geology and soils in Moreland and also the environmentally
significant areas. This will assist with selection of the right tree for the right location.
5.1
Location
Moreland is a municipality in the inner north of Melbourne. It has an area of 51 square
kilometres and mostly lies between Moonee Ponds Creek to the west, and Merri Creek to the
east, with Gowanbrae and Tullamarine to the north west of the Moonee Ponds Creek and
Newlands to the east of Merri Creek. Park Street bounds the south of the municipality, and the
Western Ring Road is the boundary to the north.
5.2
Geology and Soils
5.2.1
General description
In Greater Melbourne the distribution of soils is closely related to the underlying geological
material on which they have formed. Most of Moreland has one of three surface geologies:

Tertiary marine sediments on the highest points,

Silurian marine shales and mudstones on the lower slopes and,

Recent volcanics covering most of the remainder of the City.
There are also smaller areas associated with alluvial flats and Tertiary volcanics are found in
the slopes and bottoms of creek lines (Figure 6).
22
Figure 6: Geological map of Moreland
23
A different soil profile typically forms on each of these geologies (dark grey sand over clay on
the Tertiary marine sediments, light grey loams over clay on the Silurian sedimentary rocks and
heavy clay on the Recent volcanics). The soil types given are relatively broad groups which will
vary somewhat across the geographic range. The boundaries between the soil types will
generally not be at all distinct and quite complex intergrading in the vicinity of marked
boundaries can be expected. Soil disturbance and massive exporting and importing of soil
materials have been common in many parts of the “built up” area of Melbourne resulting in
unpredictable “urban” soil profiles. These will be found in more built up parts of Moreland.
5.2.1.1
Dark grey sand over clay (Tertiary marine sediments)
The topsoil is a black to dark grey sand with a lot of organic matter, grading into light grey sand.
It overlies a brown, red and gray mottled clay. These soils are poor in plant nutrients and lime
may be necessary to counteract acidity. Other features include:
 clay subsoil can impede drainage;
 suited to a large range of plants;
 topsoil easily worked whether dry, moist or wet
 non-sticky;
 in winter a perched watertable may occur above the clay, affecting drainage.
Table 3. Dark grey sand over clay soil profile (DPI 1996).
Profile depth Soil description
(cm)
0 - 30
Black to dark grey sand; grading into
30 - 50
Light grey sand, with slight yellow-brown mottling and a concentration of 'buckshot' (small
iron stones) at depth; abruptly overlying
50 - 150+
Brown, red and grey, mottled compact clay; strongly weathered.
5.2.1.2
Light grey loams over clay (Silurian marine sedimentary rocks)
The topsoil consists of a light grey loam with some stones or gravel. The topsoil overlies a
compact, yellow brown mottled clay subsoil with small and large angular stones often found at
the junction. These soils are poor in plant nutrients and humus. Soil acidity may be corrected
by the addition of lime. The addition of gypsum will usually improve soil structure.
Other features include:
 moderately well drained;
 moderate to low water holding capacity;
 topsoil tends to set quite hard when dry and needs to be worked when moist; too soft
when wet;
 scattered rock fragments in the subsoil can cause problems for digging;
Table 4. Light grey loams over clay soil profile (DPI 1996).
Profile depth (cm)
Soil description
0 - 15
Light grey loam, with some stones and gravel, abruptly overlying;
15 - 60+
Yellow brown mottled clay
5.2.1.3
Heavy clay (Recent volcanics)
These are generally shallow dark and reddish brown heavy clays with a thin loamy topsoil.
Outcrops of basalt rock are common and basalt floaters occur extensively. These soils benefit
24
from the addition of organic matter and gypsum can be used to improve soil structure. Other
features include:
 drainage is very poor and causes water logging in wet weather;
 soils are very hard when dry and very sticky when wet, making them difficult to cultivate;
 slightly alkaline to slightly acidic;
 clayey soil and low rainfall limits the range of plants which can be effectively grown in it;
 clay dries very quickly in hot weather and can develop deep cracks. Large shrink-swell
capacity which can cause cracks in walls and pavements.
Table 5. Heavy clay soil profile (DPI 1996).
Profile
depth (cm)
Soil description
0 - 15
Very dark grey brown clay, fissured and hard when dry but sticky and plastic when wet;
grading into
15 - 70+
Dark grey brown to brown heavy clay, coarsely angular blocky structure.
5.2.1.4
Other soils
In addition to these soils are the relatively small occurrences of:
1. The alluvial soils found along creek lines. In Moreland these soils are usually clays and any
comments for basalt clays will also apply to alluvial soils.
2. The soils associated with Tertiary volcanics. These are found exposed on the slopes of the
creeks and are typically shallow granular clays overlying rock. They are well-drained and
droughty.
5.2.2
Implications for Tree Growth
5.2.2.1
General
An investigation of soils at several park sites within Moreland found that the soils were not as
different as suggested in the descriptions above. Topsoils were generally loamy with clay loam
in a Basalt derived soil, silty loam in a Silurian sediment derived soil and a sandy clay loam in a
soil derived from Tertiary sediments. The sandy soil profile was difficult to dig below 500 mm
due to a gravelly layer. This may impede drainage and root depth in these soils and reduce the
useful soil depth for tree planting unless shattered.
Using the data from Melbourne Soils, and the field observations, the predominant soils within
Moreland City Council have been ranked for a number of attributes (Table 6). In areas where
significant disturbance has occurred, these rules may not hold. The three predominant soils in
Moreland are as follows: Dark grey sands over clay (DSC), Light grey loams over clay (LC) and
Heavy clays (HC).
Table 6. Ranking of the predominant soils within Moreland for important plant growth attributes
Attribute
Ranking
Comments
Drainage
DSC>LC>HC Trees that require good drainage will be
best restricted to DSC and LC (LC on
sloping sites). The deeper sandy soils will
provide reasonable drainage in all but the
most disturbed areas.
Water holding capacity
HC>LC>DSC The advantages of clay soils may be lost if
heavily compacted or if basalt is close to the
surface restricting rooting depth.
25
Attribute
Ranking
Comments
Liability to be damaged during development HC>LC>DSC The deep sand topsoils of DSC soils will
works
protect the soil from compaction to some
extent but all the soils will be susceptible to
compaction damage.
5.2.2.2
Mundulla Yellows
In other parts of Melbourne, the heavy basalt clays appear to affect the health of some tree
species. The symptoms exhibited are yellowing of younger foliage and are consistent with the
phenomenon of Mundulla Yellows. Researchers at DPI Knoxfield believe the effect is an iron
deficiency presumably caused by high soil pH. Poor soil drainage may also contribute. Species
that are most prone to showing this effect are Angophora costata and A. hispida, Corymbia
citriodora and C. ficifolia and Eucalyptus sideroxylon. C. maculata does not seem to be as
prone to this problem as related species but it is recommended that observations are kept of its
performance. Trees have been killed by this syndrome; examples include C. citriodora and E.
sideroxylon along the Tullamarine Freeway. Because this soil group is so common in Moreland
it is recommended that these species are not planted in areas within the city without
consideration of this potential problem. In the US literature, Quercus palustris is also described
as being prone to chlorosis caused by high soil pH and thus this species may not perform as
well on the basalt soils either.
26
6. Street Landscape Planning & Programs
This section describes the road hierarchy within Moreland and provides a summary of current
programs and initiatives that focus on street landscaping including Activity Centre Streetscape
Master Plans, Shopping Strip Renewal Program, Main Roads & Gateways Program, and Road
Reconstruction Program, and the Street Tree Infill Program and the Principal Pedestrian
Network and Pedestrian Capital Works Program.
6.1
Road and Footpath Hierarchy
Moreland City Council is the Responsible Road Authority, as defined in the Road Management
Act 2004 and is responsible for approximately 622 kms of local roads, 1,089 kms of associated
footpath assets and 39 kms of shared user paths. Vic Roads is responsible for maintenance of
the Arterial roads network but not including the footpaths and nature strips (Road Management
Plan 2009, City of Moreland page 14).
Although existing street trees are located in a significant number of the road types above,
specific Street Landscape programs that are tailored for different road types, uses and precincts
will ensure a dramatic improvement in the aesthetic and environmental values of street
landscapes throughout the City.
6.2
Streetscape Master Planning for Activity Centres
Activity Centres provide the focus for services, employment and social interaction in cities.
There are three designated Activity Centres within Moreland City Council: Coburg, Brunswick
and Glenroy (Figure 7). Coburg, has been designated a Principal Activity Centre and Brunswick
and Glenroy have been designated as Major Activity Centres.
Streetscape Master Plans are currently being developed in accordance with the Structure Plans
for the principal and major Activity Centres. These streetscape master plans will significantly
contribute to defining the urban character for each of the Centres. A specific suite of design tech
notes will be developed to guide street renewal projects within each Activity Centre.
It is intended that this Strategy form a tool for Urban Designers and Landscape Architects to
create landscapes that are more sensitive to trees and with an understanding of the
requirements of design optimal spaces for trees to grow. A list of tree species which are suited
to Moreland is included.
27
Figure 7: Proposed Activity Centres of Moreland
6.3
Retail Precincts
The street infrastructure and landscape presentation in many of Moreland’s smaller retail strip
shopping centres has significantly deteriorated over time. In the 2009 study of all retail strip
shopping centres outside the major activity areas was undertaken by the Place Design &
Strategy Branch. 2010 saw the commencement of a physical renewal program for these
centres. Both Major Road, Fawkner (2010) and Snell Grove, Oak Park (2011) , demonstrate
how a considered street landscape design approach and community consultation with traders
can result is a radical transformation and reinvigoration of these centres.
28
In August 2011 Council adopted the Shopping Strip Renewal Policy and Program. A specific
weighting criterion is applied to each of the centres to determine priority for funding and works.
The program incorporates a range of measures that are focused on assisting traders and
improving opportunities for growth in the local economy. These measures included significant
street landscape and road reconstruction upgrades.
Physical renewal projects for these centres will continue to require a reasonable level of capital
funding in order to achieve the desired level of improved amenity and presentation. The cost of
recent renewal projects led by Place Design & Strategy provides a guide for future funding
requirements. In addition to specific funding, it is imperative that key areas of Council including
Engineering, Transport, City Operations & Place Design & Strategy continue to work with
Economic Development to identify opportunities for the alignment of capital & operational
programs to maximise the opportunity for improvement of these centres and appropriately
resource the maintenance requirements.
6.4
Main Roads and Gateways
As per the recommended actions from the previous MSLS (2004 – 2009) a Main Roads and
Gateways Street Tree Planting Implementation Strategy (volumes 1 & 2 - 2008) was prepared
by Green and Dale Associates in February 2008 and endorsed by the Moreland Executive
Group in the same year.
The focus of this strategy was to develop Moreland’s varied existing street tree stock to more
consistent avenues of trees for the main roads and to improve general City presentation through
greening and landscape works. It identified 24 main roads and 11 gateways to the City of
Moreland. Each main road and gateway was assessed in terms of existing trees, proposed tree
removals, additional plantings, including appropriate species suggestions and the estimated
costs involved. At the time of this assessment only 5 out of 24 main roads identified were
considered to be in good condition. The remainder were rated as fair or poor. At the end of 2011
(Year 4 of the program) over 60% of Main Roads tree planting has been achieved, with 75% to
be completed by the end of 2012. The community have responded very positively to this
initiative.
6.4.1
Implementation progress
A specific capital works program was established in 2008/2009 to implement the plan over a 5
year period. The program is currently in its 4th year of implementation and is delivered through
the Open Space Design & Development Unit. To date of the 19 roads ranked fair to poor a total
of 6 main roads have been completed and a further 4 main roads have been partly completed
(see Figure 8).
Although funding has been made available over the past four years, the progress of the
implementation has been restricted by a number of factors. Council assessment of each road
has identified a significantly higher number of sites for new tree planting than originally
specified. The decision to remove and replace poorly performing or senescing trees together
with the need to stage planting for long roads that transverse the entire City ( Bell Street,
Moreland Road, Brunswick Road & Sydney Road in particular) has resulted in an increase to
the original cost estimates and the need to extend the time frame for implementation.
Recognition of the principal and major activity centre boundaries, together with the identification
of significant housing developments (particularly in Brunswick & East Brunswick & Coburg) has
also required halting any further tree planting in key sections of some main roads until the
completion of streetscape master plans.
6.4.2
Gateway treatments
Of the 11 gateways identified only 3 including Pascoe Vale Road North and Sydney Road South
(Hooper Reserve) and Sydney Road North had pre existing landscape treatments. New
29
gateway treatments in the past 4 years have included Bell Street West, Brunswick Road West
and a refurbishment of Sydney Road North.
Implementation of gateway landscape treatments has been limited due to a major emphasis on
tree establishment for main roads and the need for detailed landscape designs and adequate
funds to implement these. All of the pre existing gateway treatments that were undertaken prior
to 2008 are in need of major upgrade. Some of these gateways ( Sydney Road south, Lygon
Street south & Nicholson Street south in particular) are located within the Brunswick activity
centre and should be considered as part of the streetscape master plan for this area.
Four of the gateway locations including Pascoe Vale north, Sydney Road north, Sydney Road
south (Hooper Reserve) and Bell Street west are on Vic Roads land and are designated major
arterial roads. In all cases Council takes responsibility for the maintenance of these landscape
treatments and the cost of renewal. In 2009 Vic Roads introduced changes to regulations
regarding vegetation (trees in particular) in 70 km/hr road zones. These regulations changes
include the requirement for street trees to have a 5 metre set back from the kerb and channel
and this requirement has potential implications for any street landscape on Bell Street West in
particular. These requirements are not enforced in 50km or 60km/hr zones, so a possible
option is to reduce the speed limit to allow for more significant landscaping. It is important the
Council continues to regularly liaise with Vic Roads regarding landscaping and vegetation
requirements for the City of Moreland, as well as to continue to advocate for retaining street
landscaping.
30
Figure 8 Completed Plantings of the Main Roads and Gateways 2008-2011
31
6.5
Principal Pedestrian Network and Pedestrian Capital Works
Program
Council has developed a Principal Pedestrian Network (PPN) plan, which links key trip
generators across the municipality such as transport nodes and routes, open space, shopping
strips, schools and leisure centres. These routes have been identified as they "funnel"
pedestrians to their desired destinations and as a result these routes are where high levels of
pedestrian activity are expected. The PPN gives Council the opportunity to develop a hierarchy
of service levels for various streets, and align capital works expenditure on routes with higher
levels of pedestrian activity.
When developing the priority areas for street landscape improvements the PPN should be
included as part of the decision making process so that areas of high pedestrian activity are
prioritised to provide shade and improved amenity.
For street landscapes this will generally involve the tree planting program to improve shade
provision and general amenity along these routes. In the upgrading of the comprehensive asset
management system for the urban forest the PPN can be considered in broad terms of
determining the priority areas for tree planting.
32
Figure 9 Principal Pedestrian Network
6.6
Residential Streets
Successful tree establishment in residential streets is critical and a primary focus for this
Strategy. Currently there are three key programs for tree planting in residential streets.
6.6.1
Moreland 10 year Capital Works Road & Footpath Reconstruction
Program
Council’s civil works program for its roads, drains and footpaths has been developed as a part
of the Road Management Plan for Moreland. Each year a number of residential streets are
scheduled for partial or complete reconstruction. This program affords Council one of its
greatest opportunities for improving residential streets through the provision of new street trees
and vegetation. Good road design can allow space for street trees and vegetation where little or
none previously existed. This is particularly important for the southern end of the City where
current opportunities for street trees can be limited.
It is important that the cost of street landscaping and tree protection is incorporated into the
overall cost for each street reconstruction project. It is also imperative that, those responsible for
the management and development of street trees and vegetation within streets are consulted
during the design phase of each project. This will ensure adequate measures can be taken to
protect existing street trees and discuss any requirements to reduce/increase nature strip size
so that opportunities to optimise new street trees and vegetation are considered.
6.6.2
Street Tree Infill Program
The aim of this program is to ensure that Moreland’s overall street tree population is sustained
through a scheduled annual street tree replacement program. This tree planting program
together with adequate management services is the primary driver for ensuring maximum tree
canopy coverage within streets across the municipality into the future. When street trees are
removed as a result of age and general decline it is imperative that new trees are replanted.
Council delivers an annual street tree replacement program through its Open Space
Maintenance Unit.
On average Council removes approximately 1800 dead trees per year. (Note: this figure is
based on the annual stump tree removal program. It does not reflect the total number of trees
that have declined for the year and the total number of vacant sites in streets across the
Municipality.) The number of new street trees planted per year has varied according to the
operational budget but 4000 new street trees were planted in the 2011 tree planting season.
Preliminary data being gathered through the street tree inventory data collection process has
highlighted a significant number of vacant locations. Of the four Area Integrated Management
(AIM) locations mapped to date a total of 37% tree plot vacancy rate has been established. The
impact of protracted drought, coupled with and resource constraints in the Operations area has
resulted in a significant loss of tree canopy cover across the municipality over the past decade.
It is critical that Council completes an audit of its total street tree population and puts in place
both adequate measures and resources to ensure a more systematic approach to the
replacement and successful establishment of street trees. A Council commitment to an annual
tree planting and establishment target, together with completion of the street tree asset audit
and the establishment of a street tree asset management system are critical if the street tree
population are to be sustained and the Vision of this strategy realised.
33
7. Management of the street tree population
The Moreland Street Landscape Strategy details approaches to the transformation of street
landscapes from their current state to become more coordinated, sustainable and attractive. It
does not address management of existing street trees in significant detail although effective
management of these trees to ensure their longevity is important for achieving the vision of
maximizing tree canopy. There is also a high level of interdependence between management
planning for existing trees and the opportunities for implementation of the strategy. For
example, implementation priorities may be affected by plans to remove inappropriately located
trees causing problems (e.g. large trees under powerlines). A street tree management plan
based on the outcomes of the street tree inventory needs to be developed for existing trees and
coordinated with implementation of the Moreland Street Landscape Strategy. Such a plan
should consider planned replacement of senescing trees and the application of life cycle
planning principles to management of the tree population and be adequately resourced.
The strategic management of the street tree population requires an inventory with information
on the existing trees and future planting opportunities. Advocating for adequate space for trees
and the protection of existing street trees are important actions for increasing canopy cover.
7.1
Street Tree Inventory
The effective management of Moreland’s street tree population at a strategic level requires data
on the composition and condition of the existing trees and detail of potential planting locations.
Moreland’s Open Space Maintenance Unit is conducting a street tree inventory. While progress
is being made, it is relatively slow given existing resources are being used to complete the
inventory. There is an opportunity to speed this up if additional resourcing is applied. Four of
Moreland’s 23 Area Integrated Management (AIM) grids were mapped and assessed during the
2010-2011 financial year. This inventory should include an assessment of the existing trees and
also a description of the planting locations so that it forms a useful decision making tool.
The completion of this inventory and establishment of an asset management system for street
trees is critical. Council is in the process of implementing this system, and the ability to speed
up data collection will need to be considered to make the best use of the asset management
system.
To implement the strategy, a five-year streetscape planting program should be developed and
implemented out of the street tree inventory. The planting program should indicate the theme of
each street and the timeframe for planting works to be undertaken.
7.2
Street Tree Preservation
Moreland City Council recognises the environmental and aesthetic contribution that street trees
make to the continuing development and presentation of streetscapes, by:

selecting, planting and maintaining street trees, which enhance both existing and future
streetscapes; and

creating a setting in sympathy with the function and appearance of the adjacent land uses,
a safe and comfortable pedestrian environment, and catering for vehicular traffic.

Develop protection strategies for the long term preservation of significant trees
It is for these reasons that the city will retain all trees where it can and where it is appropriate.
Trees hold varying values for different people, depending on the context in which they are
viewed. Through consulting with the community the majority of people see trees as beneficial
while others may see some aspects of them as creating a nuisance. This strategy supports the
belief that the overall positive values of trees outweigh the disadvantages when considered in
the appropriate context. It is recognised that each street tree exists in its own right and has a
34
different and individual place in the street. Of equal importance is its role in relation to the rest of
the streetscape and the City as a community asset.
The following reasons do not justify tree removal:

Tree litter / Leaf fall/seed and gum drop

To provide vistas

Tree is considered too big or to old

Tree growing over property

Residents perception of risk

Allergies

Trees blocking light into residents property

Resident requests an alternative species

A perceived danger that a tree might fall in a storm

A desire to re-landscape

Property alterations requiring the relocation of the crossover

Swimming pool installation and problems with roots and/or falling leaves

Shading of lawns, pools etc by nature strip trees.

Solar access for solar panels

Animal droppings from fauna roosting in trees

For surface root growth that increases mowing height
The preservation of existing street trees is of prime importance and practical techniques are to
be used to maintain the health of trees.
7.2.1
Significant Tree Criteria
A number of streets in Moreland have individual or avenue trees that have very special qualities
and make a contribution to the amenity of those streets and will not be removed unless they are
dead, diseased, dying or dangerous. Generally these trees are mature, large in size, of good
health and form and provide streetscape continuity and high aesthetic, cultural and physical
amenity values. Significant trees are defined
as having one or more of the following
noteworthy features:

Trees that have a trunk diameter of at
least 300mm measured 1.2 metres from
the ground or are taller than 6 metres

A species or variety of tree that is rare
in cultivation, or unusual in Moreland

A tree of outstanding aesthetic
significance

A tree that forms part of an avenue of
consistent size, form and variety

A tree that contributes to a closed
canopy over a street or pedestrian path

A tree that was once contemporary with remaining heritage listed buildings

A tree that is an outstanding example of the species or variety
35

Trees that are listed in the Moreland City Council Landscape Citations (1999), which lists
local landscapes of heritage value

A tree that commemorates a particular occasion, event or activities

A remnant indigenous species tree

Any tree associated with aboriginal activities

A large, healthy tree or collection of trees in a high profile location

Trees that may indicate or provide evidence of a previous use of the land

Trees that provide habitat for native fauna as evidenced by the presence of a nest or a
hollow or from a confirmed sighting of native fauna species that is unusual or rare

Trees on any Council significance register or National Trust Register
7.3
Tree removal
It is also important to recognise that trees have a natural life span and it is necessary to plan for
their eventual removal.
It is also necessary to understand that the continuing development of the City may render some
trees inappropriate.
In such circumstances, tree removal may be necessary. By acknowledging circumstances
where removal is appropriate, tree replacement can be planned ensuring the enhancement of
the overall streetscape. Reasons for removing a street tree may include:

The tree is damaged, post-mature, and diseased or in decline and no further remedial
techniques are appropriate.

The tree is causing damage to property, public utilities and the cost of ongoing remedial
works becomes uneconomic, i.e. the cost of the perceived ongoing repairs outweighs the
value of the tree and there is no reasonable alternative to solve the problem.

The tree is causing immediate safety hazard to the public or poses a serious health risk.

The trees are not significant and have been indicated to be removed on a streetscape plan
or works program approved by Council.

Where the constraints of powerlines have been removed and a tree is of a species or has
been pruned in such a manner that the development of an adequate canopy is unlikely.

Where the constraints of powerlines have been removed and the tree(s) on the powerline
side of the street are such that there is a significantly unbalanced streetscape.

Where trees to be removed have been indicated in a property development plan to Councils
required format and grading of retention and approval by Council, provided that the
developer meets the cost of the existing trees valuation, removal and replacement trees.
The replacement trees being of an appropriate size and species within the development
area or as close to the development as practical.

Inappropriate planting by resident.

The tree poses a serious threat to ecology and evidence of dispersal of its seeds or
vegetative parts.
Where street trees are proposed to be removed, the effected residents/property will be notified,
giving the reasons for the proposed removal. Depending on the size or significance of the tree
residents to be notified will include the effected resident or those residents within the vicinity of
the tree. If a significant tree that is not dead, structurally defective or presents an immediate
risk to the community is to be removed then residents in the whole or designated section of the
street (whichever is more appropriate) will be notified (or section of long street/road). Residents
may not be notified prior to the tree being removed for emergency works.
36
Tree removals will need to be updated in the street tree asset management system.
For major streetscape tree removals or upgrades a concept plan will be prepared in accordance
with this policy. The proposal may be made available to the public for a specified period for
comment, which may include a public meeting. The level of consultation will be based on
Moreland’s Community Engagement Framework. If the proposal is of high level significance a
notice of the proposal, comment period and any public meeting will be publicised so that all
interested residents have a chance to comment. Residents in the vicinity will be notified in
writing. Following the public consultation phase, the proposal will be re-submitted to Council,
detailing comments and/or modifications submitted through the process. Following adoption by
Council, affected residents will be notified in writing of the plan.
Where the upgrade involves the large-scale removal of mature trees, a staged removal and
replacement program will be implemented. Trees identified by staff as post mature, diseased,
causing damage to property or public utilities or considered an immediate safety hazard will be
removed first. The remainder of the trees would be removed over subsequent years based on
an agreed timetable being no more than four (4) years. Council, based on the scale of the
upgrade would determine the time taken for replacement.
If a resident requests the removal of a street tree and removal is declined it is possible for the
resident to request a review of the decision (see Appendix 3 Tree Removal Policy).
7.3.1
Tree amenity value formula
Moreland City Council uses the established tree evaluation formula developed by the City of
Melbourne. There are many factors that are included in the valuation (see Appendix 3 for more
details). The formula used is:
Value (V) = Basic Value ($) x Species (S) x Aesthetic (A) x Locality (L) x Condition (C)
This identifies that there is more to a tree than just its basic value. The other factors are equally
important in their value to the community, to the environment and to the general amenity of the
municipality.
7.4
In-fill planting
Many streets throughout Moreland contain a mix of tree species. In these streets, it will be
difficult to achieve the vision of consistent avenues through in-fill planting. In the short term the
objectives of maximising tree canopy and achieving consistent street tree plantings may be
conflicting in many streets.
The in-fill tree planting program of Moreland’s Open Space Maintenance group should be
restricted to streets where the existing planting is successful and the new trees will reinforce the
character of the existing landscape. Otherwise an inconsistent planting theme will be reinforced
over time. The importance of and Councils preference for consistent planting to improve the
street landscape context should be effectively communicated to the local community. This will
assist in instances where tree removal and new planting is required to achieve consistency and
in instances where residents have planted trees in the street.
Block removals and replacements should be considered in streets where the trees are of poor
health and have short useful life expectancies. This approach should focus on streets, with
wide nature strips and no overhead powerlines, where large trees can be planted.
37
7.5
Protection of existing street trees during
development/construction
The protection of existing street trees during development and construction works is important
to avoid a decline in Moreland’s existing tree population.
7.5.1
Protection and maintenance of the tree population
The tree protection guidelines outlined in Australian Standard AS 4970 Protection of Trees on
Development Sites should be enforced and included in planning and development
documentation. All pruning should be undertaken in accordance with the Australian Standard
AS 4373 Pruning of Amenity Trees.
The monitoring, containment and treatment of pest and disease attacks on the urban forest is
important. Maintaining a diverse street tree population will help to minimise the impact of any
new pest or diseases. Myrtle Rust, a serious fungus disease, has recently been detected in
Melbourne. It is unclear what effect it will have on the many species within the Myrtaceae family
that are common street tree species.
7.5.2
Compensation for Tree damage
Street trees within Moreland are highly valued by Council and local community. If a street tree is
damaged during property development or vandalised compensation for the value of the tree
plus replacement costs will be sought. Valuation of the tree can be determined using the City of
Melbourne valuation method. Costs are to be met by the person responsible for the damage.
7.6
Competing Infrastructure and Services
To achieve the vision of maximising the tree canopy in Moreland, adequate space needs to be
allocated for trees, both above and below ground. Trees, hard infrastructure and services
compete for the limited space available in streets. The following Government initiatives and
services provide a constraint to the number and size of the street tree population:

Line Clearance Regulations

Clear Zone Guidelines

National Broadband Network

Installation of solar panels (issues with access to light)

Bicycle lanes and on street parking
Council needs to be proactive in the protection of Moreland’s street tree population. In
considering retrofits and installation of new infrastructure a careful assessment of the street tree
compromise should be undertaken.
38
8. Community Notification and Consultation
The extent of the landscape works proposed and the impact on the street landscape will
determine whether community notification or consultation is required and to what degree. Being
open and accessible to members of the community and offering timely opportunities for input
that can influence the outcome are integral to consultation in implementation of the Moreland
Street Landscape Strategy.
8.1.1
Notification
Notification is the most straightforward communication with the community and is likely to be the
most common in the implementation of the Moreland Street Landscape Strategy.
Currently residents are notified at the time of planting that a tree is to be planted.
If resources are provide the notification of minor street landscape works could occur by the
distribution of a letter to households where works will be undertaken, two weeks before the
scheduled works. This will assist in engaging the community and be a catalyst for getting the
residents interested in caring for their tree. For tree planting works the letter should include:

benefits of street tree planting

tree species to be planted

the size of the tree stock being planted

the proposed date of planting

contact details for feedback regarding the planting

the timeframe for feedback

the process for dealing with feedback
In the instance of annual infill street planting where works are planned well in advance, it might
also be appropriate to provide some general information to the community well in advance of
street landscaping works and then more specific information closer to the time of
implementation. The Open Space Maintenance Group could notify the community through the
local papers of neighbourhoods to be planted in the coming winter and then provide a letter to
households that will have a tree planted outside in the weeks preceding planting. Alternatively
the same information could be made available on Council’s website on an annual basis. The
information provided could include:

benefits of street tree planting and overview of Council policy/strategy for street landscapes

an indication of tree species to be planted

notification process that will occur prior to planting

contact details for feedback at this stage
Again this is more resource intensive than current procedures, however the benefits of getting
residents interested in increasing the urban forest would outweigh the cost in the long term. To
make this possible the development of a medium term street planting plan is recommended as
an action in the Street Landscape Strategy. This plan should outlined the proposed planting
activities for a 5 year period and would reinforce to the community that Council is undertaking
tree planting in a prioritised and systematic way. The plan could be displayed on the Council
website so that it is easily accessible for the local community.
39
8.1.2
Consultation
Consultation is a process for notifying community members affected by major street
landscaping works and offering the opportunity for input into planning. Consultation regarding
major street landscape works is more complex than simple notification. It is most likely to apply
to street landscaping that is to be undertaken in conjunction with road reconstruction,
implementation of local area traffic management schemes and the rejuvenation of street
landscapes.
The community should be consulted for the planting of large numbers of trees in streets as
replacements (i.e. when more than 50% of trees in a section of street are to be planted). This
will be most common for tree planting programs other than the infill replacement planting carried
out by the Moreland Open Space Maintenance including cut out planting, nature corridor
planting and planting targeted at improving designated streets or in conjunction with local area
traffic management schemes or street re-construction.
Consultation regarding major street landscape works should include the following elements:
 distribution of a letter to households affected by the street landscaping during the planning
stage prior to development of designs or plans
 letter to advise of the proposed works and give an outline of the work to be undertaken,
when it is likely to occur and extend an invitation to have input either verbally via the
telephone, in writing via email, fax or letter, or at a community meeting (time, date and place
of meeting to be included in the letter)
 incorporate the community feedback into final plans and advise those who have provided
input and households affected by the street landscaping of the final design and
implementation timetable.
The letter to households where street trees are to be planted should be distributed at least two
months before the proposed commencement of planting during the design/planning stage. The
letter is to include:

benefits of street tree planting

a description of the street landscaping or street tree planting proposed

the proposed dates for finalisation of plans and commencement of implementation

the time, date and place for a community meeting to discuss design and implementation
issues

contact details for feedback regarding the planting

the timeframe for feedback

the process for dealing with feedback including presentation of the final design and the
implementation timetable to those who have provided input and other households affected
by the street landscaping.
How information is presented during consultation is an important consideration so that everyone
can understand the proposal.
Graphically representing proposed street landscaping,
particularly ‘before and after’ pictures would assist where this is possible.
40
9. Implementation
Priorities have been based on the balance between simple planting into existing planting
opportunities and the need for infrastructure change to enable planting to occur. Essentially this
separates the ongoing operational street tree planting program carried out by the Open Space
Maintenance Unit from street landscapes and tree planting funded through capital works
programs.
9.1
Priorities for Street Landscape Works
The main driver for prioritising street tree planting works is to maximise the tree canopy within
Moreland for both community and environmental benefits. Finding the balance between the
expense of greening parts of the street network where infrastructure works will be required and
continued base operational resources for greening in streets with reasonable sized nature strips
for tree establishment is the key issue to resolve.
Given the significance of the principal and major activity centres, the streetscape master plans
will articulate the urban design character for these precincts. The use of materials, fixtures,
furniture within the street landscape will be of a high quality. It is anticipated the street
landscape designs and civil works required for these areas will be expensive to implement. The
plants and trees incorporated into these designs will require a higher level of maintenance to
ensure successful establishment and management. It is also envisaged that many of these
designs will also incorporate WSUD treatments with a plant focus. Neighbourhood activity
centres (which include retail strip shopping centres) also require a high level of design and
adequate funds to implement.
It is important that Council investigates and harnesses every funding opportunity to assist with
the cost of implementing these projects including, Developer Contribution Funds, Special rate
Charge Schemes and urban renewal funding through State and Federal Government
Within the exception of the Street tree Infill Program, the key capital programs for street tree
and vegetation establishment are the 10 Year Road Reconstruction Program (Engineering
Services) and the Main Roads & Gateways Program (Open Space Design & Development
Unit). Both these programs should continue to provide systematic street tree & vegetation
upgrade for reconstructed residential streets and main roads. It is recommended that the annual
allocation in the Open Space Design & Development Unit capital program continues in order to
implement key actions in the Moreland Street Landscape Strategy (MSLS) and that the focus
expands to include habitat links and corridors and streets identified in the principal pedestrian
network once the main road program is completed.
As mentioned, annual street tree planting through the Open Space Maintenance Unit is critical
to achieving the vision of the MSLS and is a relatively easier and less expensive greening
program. It is imperative that base operational budgets are maintained in order to implement the
required management systems and meet annual tree planting and establishment targets.
41
9.2
Actions
Action
Timeframe
By whom
Complete asset management system for
the existing street landscape and ensure
adequate resources to continually
update the data.
Critical
1-2 years
Open Space Maintenance Unit
Develop street planting plan for all
streets of Moreland and align annual tree
planting program to equitably and
sustainably plant according to prioritised
planting plan
Critical
1-2 years
Open Space Maintenance and
Design & Development Units
Fund a street tree/greening officer
position to facilitate improved
communication/consultation, targeted
tree programs, habitat corridor and
productive vegetation opportunities.
Critical
1-2 years
Open Space Design & Development
Unit
Plan and adequately resource landscape
projects linked to road reconstructions
and footpath infrastructure projects.
Should include consideration of
engineering solutions to allow for the
largest trees possible to be planted and
WSUD (water sensitive urban design)
initiatives where possible. WSUD
initiatives should include low cost,
passive stormwater irrigation systems
that are relatively easy to maintain.
Critical
1-2 years
Engineering/Open Space Design &
Development Units
Adequately resource the in-fill program
to allow for the planting and
maintenance of 5000 trees/annum in
accordance with the street planting
plans.
Critical
1-2 years
Open Space Maintenance Unit
Ensure protection of the street tree
population by enforcing and including the
Australian Standard AS4970 Protection
of Trees on Development Sites in
planning and development
documentation. Include tree protection
in the Asset Protection Permit.
Critical
1-2 years
Asset Management Protection
Unit/Open Space Maintenance
Ensure plans for new developments are
reviewed by Open Space prior to
approval to ensure adequate space is
provided for large canopy trees to be
established in the landscape.
Critical
1-2 years
Open Space Maintenance
Develop a street management plan
based on the tree maintenance and risk
management requirements including the
High
1-3 years
Open Space Maintenance
42
outcomes of the street tree inventory,
use of the / asset management system
and coordinated with the implementation
of the Street Landscape Strategy.
Develop a habitat corridor
implementation plan including guidelines
for habitat creation/planting plans and
maintenance plan, and budget required
to implement
High
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development
Unit
Finalise planting of remaining Main
Roads & Gateways as noted in Figure 7
High
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development
Unit
Fund an annual program to monitor and
treat pest and disease attacks as part of
the tree maintenance program
High
1-3 years
Open Space Maintenance
Develop a strategy for traders who
request to extend and upgrade outdoor
dining areas in the street landscape.
Ensure there is adequate compensation
for any loss of planting opportunities.
High
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development
Unit
Develop specific streetscape plans for all
Principal and Major Activity Centres and
other activity centres as required
High
1-3 years
Place Strategy Unit
Develop guidelines on determining and
instigating a bond system to compensate
for damage to Council street landscapes
and enforce
High
1-3 years
Asset Management Protection / Open
Space Design & Development / Open
Space Maintenance Units
Develop a prioritised capital works
program and resource street landscape
upgrades across the municipality
High
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development
Unit
Improve internal referral process for
design of new roads via Road
Reconstruction program
High
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development
Unit
Align capital works funding for street tree
upgrades with the Principal Pedestrian
Network Program where appropriate
High
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development
Unit/Roads Unit
Determine a reasonable and acceptable
outcome to the present changes to the
Electrical Safety (line clearance)
regulation code requirements and
advocate against the extreme cost
shifting, exaggerated expectation of the
present state government, ESV and the
utility companies and lack of meaningful
consultation to preserve our Urban
Forest
High
1-3 years
Moreland City Council
Develop Local Law to protect Significant
Trees, and research and resource the
implementation of the Local Law
High
1-3 years
Municipal Laws Unit
43
Develop and implement a community
education program on the value of urban
vegetation, including targeted program
for tree renewal programs
Medium
4-7 years
Open Space Design & Development /
Maintenance Units
Develop a program and fund aerial
bundle cabling of powerlines in streets
where significant avenues of trees exist,
and undergrounding of powerlines in
streets that have been designated as
high priority areas for large, canopy trees
to be planted, such as priority pedestrian
routes and heritage areas
Medium
4-7 years
Open Space Maintenance/Place
Strategy Units
Monitor and document the performance
of existing and trial species under
changing climatic conditions and their
weed potential so that the most
appropriate trees species are planted.
Ensure an up-to-date record is available
on tree performance
Medium
4-7 years
Open Space Maintenance
Use the street tree inventory data to
assess and/or set future targets for
canopy cover, species and age diversity,
proportion of indigenous trees within and
across Moreland’s urban forest, and
potential for sequestering carbon
Medium
4-7 years
Open Space Maintenance
Investigate the feasibility of the planting
of fruit/nut trees in low risk residential
street nature strips including the benefits
and issues. Include researching
appropriate species, and suitable
methods of management in the public
realm. May include trial.
Medium
4-7 years
Open Space Design & Development /
Open Space Maintenance Units
Develop standard for protection of trees
as part of planning and building permits
Short
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development /
Open Space Maintenance/Statutory
Planning Units
Develop process around Traders
requesting to use green landscape
spaces for seating areas
Short
1-3 years
Open Space Design & Development
Include tree protection provisions into all
engineering, planning and property
specifications
Critical
1 year
Open Space Design &
Development/Engineering/Property
Services/Planning Units
44
References
AS 4373, 2007, Australian Standard, Pruning of Amenity Trees, Standards Australia.
AS 4970, 2009, Australian Standard, Protection of Trees on Development Sites, Standards
Australia.
Department of Primary Industries, 1996, Melbourne soils, Note Number: LC0081, Department of
Primary Industries, viewed 15 February 2012, <http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farmingmanagement/soil-water/soil/melbourne-soils>.
IPCC, 2007, Climate Change 2007: The physical science basis. Contribution of Working Group I
to the fourth assessment report of the intergovernmental panel on climate change, S. Solomon,
D. Qin, M. Manning, Z. Chen, M. Marquis, K.B. Averyt, M. Tignor and H.L. Miller, Eds.,
Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 996 pp.
Loughnan, M, Nicholls, N, & Tapper, N, 2008, Hot spots project – a spatial vulnerability analysis
of urban populations to extreme heat events, Monash Climate & School of Geography &
Environmental Science, Monash University.
Moore, G. M., 1997, Benefits of street trees, Arbor Age, 3-8.
Moore, G. M., 2009, Urban trees: Worth more than they cost, Lawry D., J Gardner and S Smith
Eds, Proceedings of the Tenth National Street Tree Symposium, 7-14, University of
Adelaide/Waite Arboretum, Adelaide.
Moore, G. M., 2011, The Impact of Climate Change on Climate Zones and Urban Forests,
Arborist News 20(4), 57-60.
Taylor, A. F., Kuo, F. E. & Sullivan, W. C., (2001) Coping with ADD – The surprising connection
to green play settings. Environment and behaviour 33(1), pp 54-77.
45
Appendix 1
The Manual
The Manual is the primary implementation ‘tool’ in this strategy and includes the recommended
species list and planting guidelines. Each section of the Manual has been carefully drafted to
provide clear and accurate information for staff involved in planning for planting trees in streets.
The policies dealing with nature strip beautification and tree removal at the end of the manual
anticipate the need to have a clear Council position to support officers implementing the
strategy. The clear desire to retain all trees where it can requires leadership from Council.
1.1
Introduction
Planting guidelines seek to place as many of the largest trees possible in streets whilst keeping
in mind the relationship between trees and infrastructure in streets and community concerns
about street trees. All available tree planting opportunities are utilised and changes to street
infrastructure are only recommended when required to enable tree planting in streets where
planting would otherwise not be possible. In general, streets with large space available for trees
should be the first priority and tree planting that requires change to street structure should be
timed to capitalise on road infrastructure renewal projects. This approach is intended to
facilitate rapid implementation without the need for large amounts of expenditure on street
alterations. Much of the success of the street landscape strategy hinges on maximising the
number and size of street trees that can be established and managed within the resources
available. A range of indigenous, Australian native and exotic tree species have been selected
to achieve this, with the likelihood of future climate change in mind.
1.2
Design Principles and Guidelines
The design approach is based on allowing Moreland to simply implement a sustainable
greening strategy without requiring design professionals to specify and locate each tree. The
planting guidelines provide a framework for decision making by Council planning and
operational staff when establishing street landscapes. Fundamental design issues are
addressed to ensure that the right size tree of the most suitable species is located in the most
appropriate position. A range of planting design options exist for each street and the strategy
offers the flexibility to respond to the opportunities presented in each street.
Integral to the achievement of the vision is planting the maximum number of the largest trees
possible within the constraints of available space and existing infrastructure. The preference is
focus on areas that are easy to plant and have adequate available space for larger sized trees
first. Where existing street infrastructure or space does not allow a tree to be grown
satisfactorily in the nature strip or footpath it is recommended to consider planting trees in the
parking lane or in the centre of the road. These planting approaches will be extensively used
within the southern areas of the Moreland City Council, in shopping centres and along main
roads.
A number of streets in the southern and central part of Moreland have insufficient space to
allow trees to be satisfactorily grown or no street trees at all. These streets will be identified as a
part of the street tree asset inventory assessment and street landscaping will be considered in
the context of the 10 year Capital Road Reconstruction Program and street landscape master
plans for major, principal and neighbourhood activity centres. What about trialling the planting of
palms in some of these locations
46
The character and details of natural systems in Moreland will be incorporated in the street
landscape strategy through the use of indigenous trees and planting natural plant communities
where the street network crosses and adjoins waterways. Wildlife will be encouraged through
the mosaic planting types and through nature corridors.
The strategy focuses on a number of key principles that are integral to developing street
landscapes that are sustainable in terms of environmental and social impact and resource
requirements. These principles are outlined below.
1.2.1 Function
Tree sizes have been matched to existing street conditions to ensure there is sufficient space
for the above and below ground parts of each tree to grow undisturbed. Large trees provide
proportionally more environmental and health benefits than small trees and engineering
solutions should be considered to provide adequate space for larger trees to be planted. Small
trees are recommended for use under powerlines to minimise branch pruning and tree
disfigurement. Reducing tree pruning requirements will improve tree health and longevity.
Selecting the right tree for the right location will also reduce resource inputs for maintenance
over the life of the tree.
Long-lived trees have been selected. Street landscapes established using the strategy should
provide many years of service and pleasure.
1.2.2 Appearance
Planting guidelines emphasise unity by restricting the number of species used in each street.
Where planting is possible, trees will be closely planted and rows of trunks with merged
canopies will create copses within the street landscape which are repeated at intervals
throughout the street. The nature corridors are an exception and multi-layered plantings of a
wide range of species will be used to attract birds and insects.
Streets have been designed to allow trees to develop their natural character and form. In
locations where a strong impression of ‘greenness’ is required, such as retail shopping strips,
clipped trees or trees with compact, dense and bright green foliage have been used.
Appropriate scale in street landscapes will be achieved through the use of the largest possible
tree in each planting location whilst ensuring that the tree height and width are appropriate for
the urban form of the streetscape.
1.2.3 Horticulture
Street trees need to establish and grow quickly to fulfil their role in the street landscape.
Healthy, vigorous street trees reinforce community confidence in Council’s competence and are
more likely to be well received and cared for by the community. The strategy seeks to provide
optimum conditions for tree growth to maturity.
The primary limiting factors to street tree establishment have been specifically addressed in the
tree planting and establishment specification. In particular, soil preparation to alleviate
compaction and thereby increase soil oxygen and reduce resistance to root penetration has
been addressed.
1.2.4 Community education and communication
Community support for street landscapes is important during initial establishment and as street
trees grow to maturity. An important component of implementing this strategy will include
educating the community on the value of urban vegetation and encouraging a sense of
ownership of streetscapes.
47
1.2.5 Planting Design
A number of street planting design issues have been identified and form the basis of guidelines
for planting.

Regularly spaced and single species planting on each side of a street is recommended to
provide strong and consistent themes.

Only very small trees have been recommended for planting under overhead wires.
Therefore, in many streets there will be a very small tree on one side of the street and a
medium or large tree on the other side (unless Aerial Bundling Cable is installed)

It is recommended to plant trees densely where tree planting is possible as setbacks from
intersections and street infrastructure often precludes planting trees in significant lengths of
a typical street.

Where existing species have been successful within a street and within the parameters of
the strategy it is recommended to plant gaps with the same species. Most streets have a
mix of species and it is recommended to establish a new character in these cases.
A mosaic planting type has been developed to allow more diverse plantings. The mosaic
results from multiple species, density and strata variations within clumps and between clumps of
trees. Mosaic plantings will also allow the provision of wildlife habitat and are particularly
applicable to nature corridors.
Various surface treatments are recommended and include turf for nature strips and washed
granitic sand cut outs are made in footpaths and roads and in medians. Special surface
treatments for Principle, Major and Neighbourhood Activity Centres will be considered in the
context of detailed Streetscape Master plans. The potential to install turf nature strips where
they do not exist along wide footpaths in residential areas should be considered as part of the
overall road reconstruction design. This approach is particularly relevant to Brunswick where
there are wide bitumen footpaths. Groundcover and understorey planting should be planned for
use in nature corridors.
1.3
Planting Guidelines
Planting guidelines are provided for six tree planting situations and three groundcover planting
situations for traffic treatments. Recommended species lists for trees and groundcover
plantings are provided in Appendix 2.
1.3.1 Nature strip – Regular Planting
1.3.1.1
Description and Application
A single tree species planted at regular intervals along a nature strip. This will be the most
common tree planting layout within Moreland.
To be used if there is a nature strip greater than 600mm wide available for planting and the
combined width of the nature strip and footpath exceeds 1800mm.
1.3.1.2
Technical Details

Spacing to be as equal as possible

Locate trees along centreline of nature strip

Very small trees are to be planted under power lines

Typical tree spacing distances and minimum setback from centre of tree to back of kerb and
footpath edge shown in the figures below.
48
1.3.1.3
Typical Layout
49
1.3.1.4
Species Selection

Use no more than two species per street

Where shading of buildings or gardens may be an issue select deciduous species
1.3.2 Nature strip – Mosaic planting
1.3.2.1
Description and Application
Trees planted in single species clumps or in mixed species clumps within the nature strip.
Mosaic planting may be used in the east-west nature corridors where wildlife habitat values are
to be maximised (Figure 5). The mosaic planting type results from multiple species, density and
strata variations within clumps and between clumps of trees.
1.3.2.2

Technical Details
Typical distance between trees:

Small trees 3-4m

Medium trees 4-8m

Large trees 6-12m

Irregular spacing with a mixture of sizes and densities

Very small trees are to be planted under power lines

Minimum setback from centre of tree to back of kerb and footpath edge shown in shown in
the figure below.
1.3.2.3
Typical Layout
50
1.3.2.4
Species Selection

Use more than two species per street

Preferably plant indigenous species then native species
1.3.3 Footpath Cut-out Planting
1.3.3.1
Description and Application
A single tree species planted at regular intervals in footpath pavement cut-outs. This planting
approach will be common in the southern areas of Moreland and is applicable to Activity
Centres and retail areas.
To be used if streets without nature strips and where footpath pavements meet minimum with
requirement after the cut-out is made (Table ).
Table 1. Minimum footpath widths
Minimum footpath width
Light use by pedestrians
Heavy use by pedestrians
Absolute
1200mm
2000mm
Preferred
1400mm
2400mm
1.3.3.2
Technical Details

Spacing to be as equal as possible

Locate tree in centre of cut-out

Surface treatment washed granitic sand or mulch

Very small trees are to be planted under power lines (Not necessary for ABC)

Typical tree spacing distances and minimum setback from centre of tree to back of kerb and
footpath edge shown in the figures below.

Cut-out sizes, use preferred dimensions wherever possible (Table 2).
Table 2. Cut-out sizes for small and medium trees
Dimensions
Small Trees
Medium Trees
Minimum (width x length)
600mm x 1200mm
1200mm x 1200mm
Preferred (width x length)
2400mm x 2400mm
3000mm x 3000mm **structural
soil under footpath
51
1.3.3.3
Typical Layout
52
53
54
1.3.3.4
Species Selection

Use no more than two species per street

Where shading of buildings or gardens may be an issue select deciduous species
1.3.4 Parking Lane Island or Cut-out Planting
1.3.4.1
Description and Application
Trees planted in the street parking lane and located in kerbed islands or in road pavement cutouts. Typically there will one tree per island or cut-out. This planting approach will be common
in the southern areas of Moreland.
For use in streets where there is insufficient canopy or ground level space to plant trees in the
nature strip or footpath pavement. Its application must be verified with engineering design.
1.3.4.2
Technical Details

All road pavement modification and tree planting location decisions to be undertaken with
engineering design

Car parking reduction may occur

Space islands or cut-outs regularly along the street and match to property line of adjoining
properties.

Trees protected by non mountable kerb and or other approved barrier

Trees planted in centre of parking lane island or cut-out

Surface treatment washed granitic sand or mulch

Very small trees are to be planted under power lines.

Island or cut-out internal dimensions, use preferred dimensions wherever possible (Table
3).
Table 3. Parking lane, Island or Cut-out sizes
Dimensions
Small Trees
Medium Trees
Large Trees
Minimum (width x
length)
600mm x 1800mm
1200mm x 1800mm
1800mm x 2400mm
Preferred (width x
length)
1800mm x 1800mm
1800mm x 2400mm
**structural soil under
adjoining parking spaces
2400mm x 3600mm
**structural soil under
adjoining parking spaces
55
1.3.4.3
Typical Layout
56
1.3.4.4

Species Selection
Use one species per street
57
1.3.5 Median Planting
1.3.5.1
Description and Application
A regular line of trees planted centrally in an island located in the centre of the road pavement.
To use in streets where the road pavement exceeds 15.6m (kerb face to face) for roads without
a bike route and exceeds 16.6m for roads with a bike route. Its application must be verified with
engineering design.
1.3.5.2
Technical Details

All road pavement modification and tree planting location decisions to be undertaken in
conjunction with engineering design.

Minimum median with of 2000mm face of kerb to face of kerb.

Trees located centrally in median

Very small trees are to be planted under power lines.

Minimum setbacks shown in the figures below.

Island or cut-out internal dimensions, use preferred dimensions wherever possible
(Table ).
Table 4. Minimum median length to be planted with trees and typical spacings
Dimensions
Small Trees
Medium Trees
Large Trees
Minimum median length
(allows for three trees to
be planted)
18m
24m
36m
Typical tree spacing
6m
8m
12m
58
1.3.5.3
Typical Layout
1.3.5.4
Species Selection

Use one species per median

Option of mosaic planting associated with nature corridors
1.3.6 Roundabout Planting
1.3.6.1
Description and Application
A single tree or single species group of trees planted centrally in a roundabout. For use in
roundabouts without central light poles.
1.3.6.2
Technical Details

Guidelines for density and height of planting and safe locations to plant trees to be provided
by engineering and urban design on a case by case basis.

Typical spacings

Small trees 3-4m

Medium trees 4-8m

Large trees 6-12m

Plant trees at irregular spacings or if a single tree plant centrally within the roundabout

Very small trees are to be planted under power lines.
59
1.3.6.3
Typical Layout
1.3.6.4
Species Selection

Use one species per roundabout

Option of mosaic planting in large roundabouts associated with nature corridors
1.3.7 Flexibility
A variety of planting opportunities and constraints exist within any street and it is expected that
more than one planting guideline can be applied to many streets. For example, interesting
street landscapes can be created by combining small trees in footpath cut-out plantings with
larger trees in parking lane islands.
60
Traffic Treatment – Kerb extension
1.3.7.1
Description and Application
Single or multiple low growing species planted in kerb extensions. To be used for kerb
extensions greater than 1000mm wide. In kerb extensions greater than 1500mm wide consider
tiered planting designs (diagram on right).
1.3.7.2
Technical Details

Locate taller species in the centre to create a tiered planting design

Plant at an appropriate setback from the back of kerb and footpath edge so that vegetation
does not encroach on to these hard surfaces.
1.3.7.3
Typical Layout
1.3.7.4
Species Selection

Ensure species are low growing (less than 500mm high) so that sight lines are maintained.
A list of recommended species for traffic treatments is provided in Appendix 2.

Preferably plant indigenous species in street landscapes within buffer zones and along
habitat corridors

Where appropriate, select species to provide seasonal flower colour

Where possible plant a tree/s (ensure that sight lines are maintained)
61
1.3.8 Traffic Treatment – Roundabout
1.3.8.1
Description and Application
Two or three low growing species planted in roundabouts. If trees are to be used, also refer to
the earlier tree planting guideline for roundabouts (Section 1.3.6 of the Manual).
1.3.8.2
Technical Details

Locate taller species in the centre to create a tiered planting design

Plant a tree if space permits

Use a 500mm wide vegetation free buffer on the edge of roundabout to allow access to
maintain the planting
1.3.8.3
Typical Layout
62
1.3.8.4
Species Selection

Ensure species are low growing (less than 500mm high) so that sight lines are maintained

Use two or three species depending on the width of the roundabout

Preferably plant indigenous species in street landscapes within buffer zones

Select species that require very minimal maintenance (self-regenerating and high foliage
density to effectively suppress weeds)

Plant street tree in centre, if space permits.
1.3.9 Traffic Treatment – Median planting
1.3.9.1
Description and Application
Single or multiple low growing species planted medians. To be used for medians greater than
1000mm wide.
1.3.9.2
Technical Details

Planted areas can be alternated with sections of unplanted areas (option 2)

Plant at an appropriate setback from the back of kerb so that vegetation does not encroach
on the road.
63
1.3.9.3
Typical Layout
1.3.9.4
Species Selection

Ensure species are low growing (less than 500mm high) so that sight lines are maintained

Select species that require very minimal maintenance (self-regenerating and high foliage
density to effectively suppress weeds)

Preferably plant indigenous species in street landscapes within buffer zones
64
1.4
Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD)
Opportunities to incorporate stormwater treatment into streetscapes should be investigated for
all projects. In residential settings, particularly streets with wide nature strips, low cost, passive
stormwater irrigation systems may be appropriate. These are less engineered and less costly
systems. Stormwater is diverted from the road surface into slotted drainage pipe or excavated
holes filled with aggregate within the nature strip and allowing it to infiltrate into the surrounding
soil. Reshaping wide nature strips to form a gentle grassed swale is another potential option for
including WSUD into residential streetscapes. The shrink-swell capacity of heavy clay soils
throughout Moreland may limit the ease in which this type of infiltration system can be
incorporated into street landscapes.
WSUD systems that require extensive engineering input and extensive changes to street
infrastructure, such as bio filtration systems, are relatively expensive. The inclusion of these
systems is likely to be confined to high use or high profile areas where larger capital works
budgets are available for landscape works. These systems often use fast draining soils,
typically sands or sandy loams, to maximise the volume of stormwater that is treated. Species
that grow in coarse textured soils and are tolerant of both periodic flooding and dry periods are
likely to be best suited to these bio filtration systems. Some examples of such trees include
Callistemon viminalis, C. salignus, C. sieberi, Lagerstroemia cultivars, Lophostemon confertus,
Pyrus calleryana, Casuarina cunninghamiana, Maclura pomifera ‘Witchita’, Platanus orientalis,
P. x acerifolia, Brachychiton acerifolius.
65
1.5
Engineering Considerations
1.5.1 Safety
The strategy recognises that limitations are placed on locating trees where traffic and
pedestrian considerations may take precedence. The safety of Moreland's citizens will not be
compromised by locating trees dangerously within the road reservation and the guidelines have
been developed with professional engineering input.
1.5.2 Conflicts with hard landscape and street trees
Tree based, root zone based and infrastructure based strategies exist to minimise conflicts
between street trees and hard infrastructure (Table 5). To achieve the vision of maximising tree
canopy within Moreland the preference is to focus tree planting in areas where engineering
input is minimised. However, trees may be established in the parking lane adjacent to the kerb
and in centre medians. The preferred construction detail is to clearly delineate the tree planting
areas in generously sized beds with non mountable kerb. This will protect the tree from vehicle
damage, minimise pavement damage and provide sufficient root space to allow a well
proportioned and vigorous trees to grow.
Traffic control treatments and roundabouts need to be designed on a case by case basis as
engineering design is required to provide guidelines for density and height of planting and safe
locations to plant trees.
The presence of standard overhead powerlines within streets is a significant constraint to
achieving the vision of maximising total tree canopy. Overhead powerlines restrict the planting
of medium or large trees unless significant resources can be allocated to clearance pruning.
Altering the overhead powerlines to aerial bundled cable or undergrounding is expensive. The
opportunity to underground powerlines may exist in association with private developments and
road reconstruction projects. If the initial funds available are not sufficient funds, a two staged
installation may be possible to achieve the goal of undergrounding. The conduits could be
installed during construction and the powerlines added at a later date when additional funds are
available.
The strategy also recognises that infrastructure and buildings may be damaged by trees and
that Council is prepared to manage the trees and repair damage where it may occur. The
planting guidelines establish minimum setbacks from pavements and kerbs to minimise short
term damage and the tree sizes established through the ground level space and the canopy
space matrix will minimise damage to residential structures over at least 20 years.
Table 5. Strategies to reduce conflict between hard landscape and street trees (adapted from Ely 2010)
Strategy
Practice
Description
Tree based
Species selection Size
Advantages / Disadvantages
Smaller sized trees are planted
in restricted spaces. A
disadvantage is that small
trees contribute proportionally
less environmental benefits
than larger trees
Basal flare
Root zone
based
Manipulation of
root growth
Limit root growth near hard
infrastructure by the use of soil
compaction (reduced soil aeration
and increased penetrative
Low cost. Educate engineers
on the biological needs of trees
so that this can be effectively
implemented.
66
Strategy
Practice
Description
resistance).
Advantages / Disadvantages
Encourage root growth in areas
away from hard infrastructure to
optimise tree performance.
de-compact soil
mulch soil
install structural soils under
footpaths or car parks to maximise
tree pit volume
Infrastructure
based
Root barriers
Install root barriers
Not recommended as they are
not always successful in
preventing surface root growth.
Increased
strength
Reinforced or thicker footpaths
Increased installation costs,
reduced long term costs
Footing design to factor in street
trees
Increased installation costs,
reduced long term costs
Adjust or relocate Aerial bundled cabling or
undergrounding of overhead
powerlines
Allows larger trees species to
be selected which is integral to
the vision of this strategy. High
installation cost.
Minimise
Opportunities may arise in
street reconstruction projects
to increase the space available
for trees.
Reduce space allocated to road or
footpath (if appropriate)
67
1.6
Matching Tree Size to Street Space
1.6.1 The Street Tree Planting Space Matrix
The Street Tree Planting Space Matrix defines the space available to grow a street tree and fits
the most appropriate sized tree into the space based on two fundamental design parameters:
1. Using the largest acceptable tree in each planting situation
2. Avoiding modification to infrastructure.
The Street Tree Planting Space Matrix combines the space available for the trunk and main
structural roots (ground level space) and the space available for tree canopy growth (canopy
space). The footings for buildings near street tree planting locations should be designed
adequately so that the implementation of this planting matrix does not cause any structural
issues.
TOTAL GROUND LEVEL SPACE *
TOTAL
CANOPY
SPACE **
(radius)
Wide
Intermediate
Narrow
>4m
3 to 4 m
1.8 to 3 m***
Wide
> 8m
L
M
S
Intermediate
5 to 8m
M
M
S
Narrow
3 to 5m***
S
S
S
Note
* = nature strip width + footpath width
L = Large tree > 15m
** = nature strip width + footpath width
+ building set back
*** = smaller spaces not appropriate for
tree planting into existing infrastructure
M = medium tree 8 to 15m
S = small tree < 8m
68
1.6.2 Tree Size
The space available in the street for the tree to grow was identified as the primary constraint on
tree size at maturity. Underpinning species selection were two key assumptions:
1. That a tree is a plant that carries branches and leaves above a person’s head (i.e. it has a
canopy) and does not include tall shrubs*,
2. That the largest possible tree should be used in each planting situation
*There are two minor exceptions to this - clipped trees, such as Ficus microcarpa var. hillii, for
planting in retail shopping areas and the inclusion of Callistemon sieberi to increase the
selection for indigenous trees in the vicinity of the creek corridors.
Four basic tree size categories were developed based on the actual dimensions of available or
commonly used trees and the space typically available in different types of streets within
Moreland. The four size categories are:
1. Very small: 6 or less metres tall by 6 or less metres wide (under powerlines)
2. Small: 6 to 8 metres tall by 5 to 10 metres wide
3. Medium: 8 to 15 metres tall by 8 to 18 metres wide
4. Large: 15 or more metres tall by 15 or more metres wide
Tree sizes at maturity have been estimated. Obviously tree growth varies from one individual to
another and between populations and different provenances, so wherever possible sources of
trees have been identified to reduce the likelihood of trees growing much larger than
anticipated.
1.6.3 Overhead Services
Only very small trees (6 metres or less tall by 6 metres of less wide) are recommended where
overhead services exist. In general, planting trees under overhead services should be a lower
priority in the short term. To assist with achieving the goals of this strategy, tree planting should
be targeted in areas with wide ground level and canopy space.
1.6.4 Ground Level Space
Ground Level Space is the sum of the nature strip width (if present) and the footpath width. The
Ground Level Space is classified into four width categories:
1. Insufficient space: less than 1.8 metres (no tree size suitable)
2. Narrow space, 1.8 to 3 metres (enough space for small trees)
3. Intermediate space, 3 to 4 metres (enough space for small and medium trees)
4. Wide space, greater than 4 metres (enough space for small, medium and large trees)
*
Where there is insufficient Ground Level Space in the nature strip and footpath trees can
possibly be grown in a parking lane island or central road median.
For a given tree size the Ground Level Space allows sufficient space for most street activities
after allowance is made for the trunk diameter. Activities such as walking with a pram and
alighting from parked vehicles will be conveniently carried out. The matching of tree size to
Ground Level Space allows for the main structural roots to grow without significant short term
damage to pavements. The minimum space required for access and excavation to control roots
to protect private structures without severing roots at the base of the trunk is allowed for as is
the minimum space for tree root protection during infrastructure maintenance and repairs.
Where there is less than 1800mm of Ground Level Space, there is insufficient room for the
69
minimum planting bay of 600mm and the minimum path width of 1200mm.
1.6.5 Canopy Space
Canopy space is the combined total width of the nature strip, footpath and building setback and
is the space available for the radius of a tree canopy. The Canopy Space is classified into four
width categories:
1. Wide space, greater than 8 metres (enough space for small, medium and large trees)
2. Intermediate space, 5 to 8 metres (enough space for small and medium trees)
3. Narrow space, 3 to 5 metres (enough space for small trees)
4. Insufficient, less than 3 meters wide (no tree size suitable*)
*
Use parking lane, island or central road median
The Canopy Space will accommodate a tree without the tree overhanging or rubbing against
buildings. Canopy for shade on one side of the street, at a minimum, should be achieved where
possible.
1.7
Recommended Tree Species
1.7.1 Species selection
Species selection should be governed by the concept of “the right tree in the right place”. The
recommended list of species includes a combination of indigenous, Australian native and exotic
tree species that have been shown to perform well in Moreland streets (See Appendix 2). The
list of recommended species provides a basis for street tree selection and is not intended to be
exhaustive. Ongoing trialling and assessment of the performance of new tree species and
selections is encouraged.
The impact of future climate change on tree performance is unknown. It is anticipated that
species from cooler climates are likely to do less well whereas trees from warmer climates may
perform better. Tree species performance should be monitored to assess how they grow under
changed climatic conditions and the recommended species list updated accordingly.
1.7.2 Species list and tree descriptions
The species list includes trees that will be used in large numbers throughout the municipality
and trees that will be restricted to specialised planting locations. For example, Ficus microcarpa
var hillii has been included for use as a clipped tree only and its use will probably be restricted
to retail shopping strips with awnings located above the trees.
Species with weed potential or a tendency to sucker should not be planted in the street
landscapes within the creek buffer zones or in other environmentally sensitive areas. This
applies to the following species in the general recommended list:

Celtis australis and C. occidentalis

Robinia pseudoacacia

Gleditsia triacanthos

Olea europaea

Casuarina cunninghamiana

Ulmus procera

Platanus xacerifolia
Fruit/nut trees have not been included in the recommended list. Council has a number of
concerns with planting fruit/nut trees within streets. These concerns include:
70

Council maintenance areas do not have the available resource to adequately maintain and
monitor these and time necessary to maintain productive trees

Fallen fruits or seeds on the footpath or road are a potential hazard to street users

A potential harbour for pests and diseases

Trees need to be maintained at a low height to allow the fruit to be safely picked.

Small trees provide less shading and cooling benefits to the municipality than large trees.
An action to research, consider and trial potential fruit/nut trees, and suitable methods of
management in the public realm has been included in the strategy.
1.7.3 Provenance and Selections
Street tree selection will become more precise as more specific information becomes available
about the performance of trees under urban conditions. In particular, information defining
adaptation to specific geographic regions (provenance) and types of urban sites will help refine
tree selection decision making. Street tree performance will be enhanced by selecting ecotypes
that perform well under environmental conditions similar to planting sites in Moreland. For
species that have a wide distribution, the difference between provenance selections can be as
significant as the difference between species. Local provenance of indigenous trees species
should be planted within the vicinity of the creek corridors.
Research to identify superior provenances for urban conditions of the following species has
been undertaken:

Corymbia maculata (Bone 2002)

Lophostemon confertus (Williams 1996)

Tristaniopsis laurina (Looker 2001)
1.7.4 Tree Size
Tree size categories are based on the actual dimensions of commonly used street trees and
space typically available in streets within Moreland as discussed in section 1.3.2.
1.7.5 Tree Planting and Establishment Methods
1.7.5.1
Trees growing in open sites (wide grassy nature strips and
medians)
These trees are generally unaffected by the encroachment of hard infrastructure. The major
limitations to root spread in such planting zones will be soil compaction from development
works.
The planting hole for this detail can be dug with a number of different pieces of equipment.
Recently the use of chain trenchers has become common. These devices will dig a hole of this
type readily, in most soils, and will leave the excavated soil in a good tilth condition for
backfilling after planting. In the sandy and loam soils in Moreland holes can be dug at most
times of the year. In the basalt clay soils holes are best pre-dug during summer while the soil is
dry.
Unamended site soil is recommended as backfill in all planting situations. Organic and other
amendments are generally of no value and may make the planting environment worse. If
organic amelioration of site soil was desired, shallow incorporation of composted organic matter
(surface 100 mm only) is recommended. Surface application of organic mulches is a preferred
option.
If site soil cannot be used for backfilling the planting hole a low organic matter sandy soil is
recommended. The drainage rate of this soil should be no less than 5 mm /h.
71
Drainage will not be required in most planting holes unless the tree is not suited to the drainage
characteristics of the site or is of a very large size requiring excavation into underlying clay
subsoil. Drainage will be required where trees are being planted into rain garden planters for
water quality treatment of runoff water.
1.7.5.2
Footpath or road cut-out
Allow adequate distances between trunk and hard materials. Species selection for such areas
will generally focus on smaller trees, with smaller root flares and a less shallow root system
(Urban, 2008, Costello and Jones, 2003). Larger sized cut-outs will reduce the potential impact
that the street trees have on the surrounding pavement. If space is restricted in footpaths use
pits that are longer rather than wider to allow pedestrian access and ensure that an acceptable
rooting volume is provided.
1.7.5.3
Improving soil conditions for trees growing in paved areas.
In heavily urbanized areas, many trees are planted through paving. Soils under paving are
generally heavily disturbed and are often heavily compacted, limiting tree growth and restricting
species choice to those that can tolerate such conditions (e.g. Platanus spp.). In Moreland,
shopping precincts and parking lots will be common examples of planting areas of this type.
These trees have great potential to improve the local environment but the poor soil environment
found under paving potentially limits this contribution.
One simple way of improving tree soil conditions is the use of raised planters that provide an
improved soil volume in the root flare area and zone of rapid taper. This approach also reduces
soil compaction around the base of the tree by reducing pedestrian access. This is probably a
much less expensive option than some of the below-ground options outlined later in this section.
Public safety must be taken into consideration when planning such a system but the US
example, from a very heavily-trafficked street, shown in Figure, demonstrates that such a
system is feasible. Incorporation of seating may be a way of justifying this approach. If such an
approach was being considered it is essential that the soil in the raised planter is connected to a
larger soil volume below the paving.
Figure 1: Street tree planter treatment that improves growing conditions (N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Ill.
Source: Google Maps Accessed 24 Aug 2011)
72
1.7.5.4
Specialist applications for trees in paved areas.
There are a number of systems that have been designed to specifically deal with the issue of
poor quality root environments under paving. These approaches may be appropriate for large
capital works projects in Activity Centres or Retail Precincts. Some of these are discussed
below.
Root guide trenches
A number of trenches are cut away from the planting pit using a trencher. Each trench has a
strip drain run along its length and then is backfilled with a sandy soil. The paving is then
replaced.
Figure 2: Section below footpath of root guidance trench (Source: Gilman, E. Urban Design to
Accommodate Trees: Sidewalk Solutions (http://hort.ufl.edu/woody/planting)
Suspended slab/ tree vault systems
In this approach the paving is cantilevered over the rooting space. The slab can be supported
on piers. This allows general-purpose soils to be used as the root zone material as the soil
does not have to be compacted to support the paving system. City of Melbourne used this
approach in Swanston St during its redevelopment. The new Lonsdale St development in
Dandenong has also adopted this approach. Where substantial investment in tree planting soil
volumes is being considered this may be the least expensive option, compared to the two
following approaches.
Compaction tolerant soil systems (Structural soils)
Some soil materials can be specified in such a way that they can be compacted, and yet still
allow air and water percolation and root penetration. The two commonest examples are:

Coarse sands /Amsterdam Tree Soil.
In this system coarse sand (typically 0.25 – 0.5 mm diameter particles) is used to make the
root zone. Sands of this type can be compacted to support paving and still remain
permeable.

Structural/ bimodal soils.
In most structural soil applications a typical profile section would include, from the surface:
Pavement as specified, 50 - 100 mm of “no-fines” concrete as bedding for pavers (an
alternative treatment would be crushed rock with minimum fines), 600 – 900 mm structural
soil (a matrix of 40 mm diameter stones mixed with approximately 20% by volume clay loam
filler soil), drainage layer.
73
Both types of compaction-tolerant soils readily lend themselves to incorporation into WSUD
systems because of their excellent water infiltration rates.
Lower-cost approaches to using either of these systems may be found by exploring the
possibility of installing volumes that are smaller than the entire under-paving zone (either
modifying shallower layers of soil replacement or smaller volumes of replacement soil with site
soil left between planting holes). Another strategy is the construction of trenches
(approximately one metre wide) that link the planting pits but do not occupy the entire under
paving volume.
74
1.8
Tree Supply
Sourcing high quality stock is an important aspect of establishing a healthy, street tree
population that will provide long term benefits to Moreland. Using the outcomes of the street
tree inventory to develop a short to medium term planting plan is recommended. A planting plan
will enable trees to be pre-ordered and regularly inspected at the nursery to ensure they meet
the specification of a good quality tree (Clarke 2003).
Trees at planting should be at least one metre in height and the rootball must provide enough
ballast to support the tree (Clarke 2003).
1.9
Tree Planting Details
75
1.10 Tree Establishment Maintenance Plan
An example of a two year tree establishment maintenance plan is shown in Table 6.
Table 6. A two year establishment maintenance plan for street tree plantings
Activity
Number of visits (Year 1)
Number of visits (Year 2)
Watering
30
20
Weed control
2
1
Mulch top up
2
1
Formative pruning
-
1
Stake removal
-
1
Water well removal
-
1
Tree tie removal
-
1
76
77
1.11 References
Bone, S.L. 2002 ‘The urban horticulture of Corymbia maculata’ Masters Thesis, School of
Resource Management, University of Melbourne.
Clark, R., 2003, Specifying trees: a guide to assessment of tree quality, NATSPEC, Milsons
Point, NSW.
Costello, L.R & Jones, K.S., 2003, Reducing infrastructure damage by tree roots: A
compendium of strategies, Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture,
Porterville, California.
Ely, M.E., 2010, ‘Integrating trees into the design of the city’ PhD thesis, School of Architecture,
Landscape Architecture and Urban Design, University of Adelaide.
Gilman, E. F., 2005, Urban design to accommodate trees: sidewalk solutions, Department of
Environmental Horticulture, University of Florida, Gainesville, viewed 15 February 2012,
<http://hort.ufl.edu/woody/powerpoints/urbandesigntoaccommodatetreessidewalksolutions.ppt>.
Looker, M., 2001, ‘Patterns of morphological, chemical and physiological variation within
Tristaniopsis laurina (Myrtaceae) and the selection of superior forms for horticulture’ PhD
Thesis, School of Life Sciences, Department of Botany, La Trobe University, Melbourne.
Urban, J., 2008, Up by roots: healthy soils and trees in the built environment, International
Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, Illinois.
Williams, G. 1996 ‘Selection of Australian rainforest tree species and provenances with superior
tolerance of urban conditions’ Masters Thesis, Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Horticulture,
University of Melbourne.
Draft Moreland Street Landscape Strategy
Appendix 2
Appendix 2
Recommended Species list
1.12 Street Trees
Recommended tree species (please note this list has been based on current trees Council use,
trees that have been identified as growing well in Moreland, and on advice from tree/soil experts
on what species of tree will grow in the current climate and soil conditions of Moreland and
should not be seen as a definitive list)
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Small trees maturing to <8m
SPECIES DETAIL
Acacia pendula
CHARACTERISTIC FORM
Native
Evergreen
Rounded, small, evergreen tree to 6m, with pendulous branches and attractive
silver foliage. The tree is drought tolerant and probably one of the longer lived
acacias.
Exotic
Deciduous
Oval to upright, moderately dense medium sized tree to 8m. The form would
suit restricted sites however will require pruning under power lines. Autumn
colour is an attractive orange-red.
Exotic
Deciduous
Oval to round, dense small to medium sized tree to 7m with yellow autumn
foliage. Probably suitable under power lines
Exotic
Deciduous
Dense large shrub to small tree to 6m with a rounded crown and red-orange
autumn foliage.
Native
Evergreen
Broad spreading, multistemmed, semi pendulous small tree to 8m. Attractive
small, white flowers cluster along stems from spring to summer.
Native
Evergreen
Broad spreading semi pendulous small tree with strong burgundy new growth.
Attractive small, white flowers cluster along stems from spring to summer.
Agonis flexuosa 'Jervis Bay
After Dark'
Native
After Dark Willow Myrtle
Evergreen
Broad spreading semi pendulous small tree with burgundy to purple coloured
foliage all year round. Attractive small, white flowers cluster along stems from
spring to summer.
Allocasuarina verticillata
Indigenous
Evergreen
Small rounded spreading tree to 6-8m with an open canopy and needle-like, dark
green foliage.
Native
Evergreen
Large shrubs to small rounded trees to 4-8m. There are many cultivars with
varying flower colours, foliage and habits. Cultivars include: 'Dawson River
Weeper','Endeavour', 'Hannah Ray', 'Harkness', 'Kings Park Special', 'Mauve Mist'
and 'Rose, Opal'.
Indigenous
Evergreen
Open to dense semi weeping shrub or small tree to 4-7m. Flowers are spikes of
cream to pink borne from late spring to late autumn.
Silver Myall
Acer buergerianum
Trident Maple
Acer campestre
Hedge Maple
Acer monspessulanum
Montpelier Maple
Agonis flexuosa
West Australian Willow Myrtle
Agonis flexuosa 'Burgundy'
Burgundy Willow Myrtle
Drooping She-Oak
Callistemon Cultivars
Bottlebrush
Callistemon sieberi
River Bottlebrush
Callistemon viminalis
Weeping Bottlebrush
Catalpa bignoinoides 'Nana'
Dwarf Indian Bean Tree
Eucalyptus forrestiana
Fuchsia Mallee
Eucalyptus macrandra
River Yate
Eucalyptus platypus
Moort
Eucalyptus risdonii
Risdon Peppermint
Native
Evergreen
Rounded small tree to 5m, with crimson bottlebrush flowers and pendulous
foliage.
Exotic
Deciduous
Top-grafted small tree to 2-4m with large, lush, leaves and a rounded habit,
suitable for restricted locations.
Native
Evergreen
Small mallet or mallee eucalypt less than 8m tall. The canopy is open and
rounded with showy, pendulous orange-red flowers. The fruits are persistent
on the tree and remain an orange-red colour.
Native
Evergreen
Small tree or mallee to 3-6m with silvery green glossy foliage. The yellow
flowers are in dense clusters from summer to autumn and the smooth grey bark
peels to reveal coppery patches.
Native
Evergreen
Small, dense and rounded tree to 6-10m. The leaves are small, round and
glossy green and the trunk is glossy green to copper in colour.
Native
Evergreen
Small, short-trunked irregular tree reaching a height of 6-8m with grey-green
adult foliage higher in the canopy.
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Small trees maturing to <8m
SPECIES DETAIL
Eucalyptus torquata
Coral Gum
Ficus microcarpa var. hillii
Hills Fig
Fraxinus ornus
CHARACTERISTIC FORM
Native
Evergreen
Native
Evergreen
Small open tree to 6-8m tall. The foliage is olive green and the flowers are a
pinkish orange in colour throughout spring and summer.
This fig is traditionally planted in streets and pruned into a round ball
approximately 2m in size. Trees are usually only 2-4m tall. The foliage is a
lustrous, bright green.
Exotic
Deciduous
Small, rounded tree to 7-9m tall. Foliage is a lush green without showy autumn
colour. The white flowers are showy and borne in dense clusters.
Gleditsia triacanthos
'Sunburst'
Exotic
Upright spreading small tree to 8m with light yellow-green fine leaflets.
Sunburst Honey Locust
Deciduous
Hakea bucculenta
Native
Evergreen
Manna Ash
Hot Pokers
Hakea petiolaris
Large shrub or small tree to 3-4m with an upright habit. The leaves are linear
and stand vertical on the tree. The flowers are striking pink 'pokers' borne in
winter.
Native
Evergreen
Shrub or small dense tree to 4-5m tall. Foliage is grey-blue, elliptical to almost
round. Flowers are showy, pink and white in balls that resemble 'sea urchins'.
Exotic
Deciduous
Multistemmed widespreading tree to 6-8m tall. The flowers are very showy in
summer and the autumn colour is quite striking. Cultivars include, 'Lipan',
'Natchez', 'Sioux', 'Tuscarora', 'Yuma' and 'Zuni'.
Exotic
Deciduous
Small oval to rounded tree to 4-5m tall. The double flowers are showy in spring
and the foliage displays striking autumn colour.
Exotic
Evergreen
Small upright tree to 6-7m tall. The foliage is a silvery green and the trunk
forms a twisted gnarled look with age. Two selections are almost fruitless,
'Swan Hill' or 'Tolley's Upright'.
Exotic
Deciduous
Small tree to 4-6m tall, the double pink flowers in spring give way to
bronzy-purple foliage.
Robinia pseudoacacia
'Inermis'
Exotic
Top-grafted small tree to 3-4m, producing a straight clean trunk and a large 'ball'
of foliage at 2-3m. Can be striking when planted as an avenue.
Mop Top Robinia
Deciduous
Tristaniopsis laurina
Native
Evergreen
Sea Urchin Hakea
Lagerstroemia Hybrids
Crepe Myrtle
Malus ioensis 'Plena'
Ornamental Apple
Olea europaea
Olive
Prunus xblireana
Double Flowering Plum
Water Gum
Rounded to broad spreading small to medium tree to 8m. The foliage is glossy
and green and the trunk often forms a gnarled and mottled appearance with age.
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SPECIES DETAIL
Acacia implexa
CHARACTERISTIC FORM
Indigenous
Evergreen
Small to medium erect evergreen tree to 8m tall, with dense bright green foliage
and creamy acacia flowers from summer to autumn.
Indigenous
Evergreen
Upright to spreading dense medium to large tree, with dark green foliage.
Performs best with supplementary water during establishment.
Acer truncatum x A.
platanoides 'Warrenred'
Pacific Sunset
Exotic
Rounded to oval medium-sized tree to 8m providing attractive autumn colour.
Pacific Sunset Maple
Deciduous
Allocasuarina littoralis
Indigenous
Evergreen
Upright conical small tree to 8-10m with needle-like, dark green foliage and a
trunk developing hard furrowed bark.
Native
Evergreen
Erect small to medium tree to 6-10m. Foliage is green on the top and white
underneath. Flowers are yellow spikes borne throughout the year.
Lightwood
Acacia melanoxylon
Blackwood
Black She-Oak
Banksia integrifolia
Coastal Banksia
Brachychiton acerifolius
Flame Tree
Brachychiton discolor
Queensland Lacebark Tree
Brachychiton populneus
Native
Erect oval to conical medium sized tree to 8-12m. The tree can be deciduous
Semi-deciduous from late winter to summer. The leaves are large with 3-7 lobes and the flowers
are bright scarlet in terminal panicles from late spring to early summer.
Native
Dense conical tree to 15m tall with large, mostly palmate leaves that are green on
Semi-deciduous the top side and hairy and white on the underside. Flowers are small 3-4cm
long and orange-red to pink over summer.
Native
Evergreen
A medium-sized upright to oval canopied tree with a large trunk to 10-12m tall.
The leaves are mostly small and bright green, flowers are inconspicuous.
Native
Evergreen
Upright rounded large shrub to small tree to 9m. The foliage is a bright green
with new foliage pink. Flowers are small, yellow bottlebrushes and the bark is
papery and peeling.
Exotic
Deciduous
Broad-crowned tree to 10-12m tall. The bark is smooth and grey, foliage is
green and rough with serrated margins.
Exotic
Deciduous
Broad-crowned tree to 10-15m tall. The bark is grey and furrowed with age,
foliage is green and glossy with serrated margins.
Native
Evergreen
Rounded tree to 10-12m tall with pendulous, blue-green, sickle-shaped foliage.
Masses of creamy flowers are borne on the outside of the canopy in spring.
Native
Evergreen
Dense rounded tree to 8-10m. Masses of pink, red or orange flowers are borne
on the outside of the canopy over summer.
Eucalyptus leucoxylon subsp.
connata
Indigenous
Yellow Gum
Evergreen
Medium upright to oval tree to 12m with an open canopy and creamy yellow
flowers from winter to spring. The bark is more or less smooth with some rough
basal peeling bark, white to grey in colour.
Eucalyptus polyanthemos
subsp. vestita
Indigenous
Red Box
Evergreen
Kurrajong
Callistemon salignus
Willow Bottle Brush
Celtis australis
Nettle Tree
Celtis occidentalis
Hackberry
Corymbia eximia
Yellow Bloodwood
Corymbia ficifolia
Red Flowering Gum
Round-headed to upright eucalypt to a height of 10-12m. Adult leaves
are a slate grey colour and bark is rough 'box'.
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Medium-sized trees maturing to 8-15m
SPECIES DETAIL
Eucalyptus pulchella
CHARACTERISTIC FORM
Native
Evergreen
Medium sized, oval to rounded tree to 10-15m with an open canopy. The trunk
mostly smooth and white and the leaves are narrow and pendulous creating a
is weeping effect.
Native
Evergreen
Medium to tall open tree to 12-18m tall. Trunk is a powdery white and the
foliage is semi-pendulous and green in colour.
Exotic
Deciduous
Small to medium, slow growing tree 8-10m tall. New stems are yellowish in
colour with almost black winter buds. Foliage is bright green turning golden in
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
'Urbdell' Urbanite™
Exotic
Medium sized tree 10-12m with large, pinnate , bright green leaves. Autumn
colour is variable from yellow to deep burgundy.
Urbanite Green Ash
Deciduous
Gleditsia triacanthos
'Shademaster'
Exotic
Shademaster Honey Locust
Deciduous
Hymenosporum flavum
Native
Evergreen
Small to medium-sized tree 6-10m tall. Glossy, dark green foliage and small,
fragrant, yellow flowers in spring.
Exotic
Deciduous
Small to medium-sized spreading tree to 8-12m with an open canopy. The
foliage is divided into many fine leaflets. The lilac-blue flowers are very showy
and are borne on the outside of the canopy in late spring to summer.
Native
Evergreen
Rounded, sometimes multistemmed, dense tree to 12-16m. The foliage is a
glossy, dark green and the bark peels to reveal an orange-pink trunk.
Native
Deciduous
Small to medium umbrella shaped tree to 9-14m tall that performs well in urban
conditions. The leaves are large and finely divided into small leaflets. The tree
has mauve flowers in spring and fruit mature over summer and hang on the tree.
Exotic
Deciduous
Oval to pyramidal small to medium tree to 10-12m tall. White flowers amass
the stems in spring followed by bright green foliage. The autumn colour varies
from yellow to red.
Exotic
Deciduous
Narrow, upright small tree to 10m. White flowers amass the stems in spring
followed by bright green foliage. The autumn colour varies from yellow to
purplish-red.
Pyrus calleryana 'Glen's Form'
Chanticleer®
Exotic
Chanticleer Callery Pear
Deciduous
Upright oval small to medium tree to 12m. White flowers amass the stems in
spring followed by bright green foliage. The autumn colour varies from yellow
to purplish-red.
Ulmus parvifolia
Exotic
Pyramidal to oval small to medium tree to 12m. The foliage is fine and is usually
Semi-deciduous held on the tree over winter. If not managed the form can become very wide
and spreading.
White Peppermint
Eucalyptus scoparia
Wallangarra Gum
Fraxinus excelsior 'Aurea'
Golden Ash
autumn.
Native Frangipani
Jacaranda mimosifolia
Jacaranda
Lophostemon confertus
Queensland Brush Box
Melia azederach
White Cedar
Pyrus calleryana 'Aristocrat'
Aristocrat Callery Pear
Pyrus calleryana 'Capital'
Capital Callery Pear
Chinese Elm
Zelkova serrata
Zelkova
Ulmus glabra ‘Lutescens’
Golden Elm
Exotic
Deciduous
Exotic
Deciduous
Vigorous growing, open spreading tree to 10-12m tall. Foliage is divided into
small leaflets that provide yellow autumn colour.
Semi-upright oval to vase shaped tree to 10-14m tall with small serrated leaves
that turn yellow and red in autumn. Ornamental trunk is grey peeling to reveal
reddish underneath.
Dense, wide spreading impressive shade tree to 10m. Greenish gold
foliage with broad leaves turning a golden yellow in autumn.
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Large trees maturing to >15m
SPECIES DETAIL
Angophora costata
Smooth-barked Apple Myrtle
Casuarina cunninghamiana
River She-Oak
Corymbia citriodora
Lemon-scented Gum
Corymbia maculata
Spotted Gum
Eucalyptus mannifera
Brittle Gum
Eucalyptus melliodora
Yellow Box
Eucalyptus sideroxylon
Red Ironbark
Maclura pomifera 'Witchita'
Witchita Osage Orange
'Witchita'
Platanus orientalis
Plane
Platanus xacerifolia
London Plane
Quercus ilex
Holm Oak
Quercus palustris
Pin Oak
Quercus robur 'Fastigiata'
Fastigiate English Oak
Ulmus procera
English Elm
CHARACTERISTIC FORM
Native
Evergreen
Medium to large rounded tree with twisting branches to 12-25m. Showy cream
flowers are borne on the outside of the canopy and the bark peels to reveal an
orange pink trunk.
Native
Evergreen
Tall, upright, somewhat pine-like tree to 12-18m with needle-like, dark green
foliage. The overall appearance of mature specimens is often pendulous.
Native
Evergreen
Narrow open medium to large, graceful tree to 20-25m. The trunk is smooth
grey to white and the foliage smells strongly of lemon when crushed.
Native
Evergreen
Medium sized to very tall upright tree to 25m with smooth mottled grey and dark
grey trunk. The canopy is dense with large dark green eucalypt type leaves.
Native
Evergreen
Medium to tall open tree to 12-18m tall. Trunk is a powdery white and the
foliage is semi-pendulous and blue-green in colour.
Indigenous
Evergreen
Medium to tall open tree to 20-25m. The bark is rough and tightly held to the
trunk and the foliage is semi-penduluous.
Native
Evergreen
Medium to tall forest tree to 12-25m. Mature trunks have deeply furrowed
firmly attached reddish black bark. The foliage is a blue-green with red to
cream flowers produced from winter to spring.
Exotic
Deciduous
Medium to tall, broad-crowned tree to 10-16m tall. The foliage is large and
lush, bright green over summer and turns butter yellow through autumn. The
selection is fruitless and thornless.
Exotic
Deciduous
Pyramidal to rounded medium to large tree to 15-25m with deeply lobed foliage.
The bark forms a patchy mosaic of creams, greens and greys and is attractive.
Exotic
Deciduous
Rounded medium to large tree to 15-25m with maple like foliage. The bark
forms a patchy mosaic of creams, greens and greys and is attractive.
Exotic
Evergreen
Slow growing medium to large tree developing a rounded canopy to 14-16m tall.
Small leaves are a dark, glossy green with a lighter underside.
Exotic
Deciduous
Broadly pyramidal medium to tall tree to 18-20m tall. Leaves are heavily lobed
and provide a good autumn display.
Exotic
Deciduous
Narrow, upright tree to 10-15m with small lobed leaves. Autumn foliage colour
is not exceptional.
Exotic
Deciduous
Dense, rounded tree to 15-20m tall. Rounded, dark green, serrate leaves of
varying size turn yellow in autumn.
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1.13 Groundcover species for traffic treatments
The following table provides a list of recommended species for traffic treatments. This list
provides a basis for species selection and is not intended to be exhaustive. In general, species
that are appropriate for traffic treatment are low growing (<500mm) and ideally have high foliage
density to enable weed suppression, tolerant of some pedestrian traffic and able to self
regenerate following damage.
Scientific name
Common name
Origin
Dianella longifolia
Pale Flax Lily
Indigenous
Dianella revoluta
Spreading Flax Lily
Indigenous
Lomandra longifolia*
Spiny-headed Mat-rush
Indigenous
Myoporum parvifolium
Creeping Boobialla
Indigenous
Brachyscome multifida
Cut-leaf Daisy
Indigenous
Ficinia nodosa
Knobby Club-rush
Indigenous
Goodenia ovata
Hop Goodenia
Indigenous
Chrysocephalum apiculatum
Common Everlasting
Indigenous
Chrysocephalum semipapposum
Clustered Everlasting
Indigenous
Hardenbergia violacea
Purple Coral Pea
Indigenous
Rhaphiolepis indica (low growing cultivar)
Indian Hawthorn
Exotic
Patersonia occidentalis
Purple Flag
Native
Rhagodia parabolica*
Fragrant Saltbush
Rhagodia spinescens
Spiny Saltbush
Native
Rosmarinus officinalis (low growing forms)
Rosemary
Exotic
Correa glabra
Rock Correa
Indigenous
Correa reflexa
Common Correa
Indigenous
Correa “Dusky Bells”
Correa
Native
Leucophyta brownii
Cushion Bush
Native
Callistemon “Better John”
Bottlebrush
Native
Convolvulus cneorum
Silverbush
Exotic
Dietes grandiflora*
Wild Iris
Exotic
Dietes bicolo *
African Iris
Exotic
Iris germanica
Bearded Iris
Exotic
Juniperus sabina
Savin
Exotic
Juniperus conferta
Shore Juniper
Exotic
Osteospermum (hybrid cultivars)
Cape Daisy
Exotic
Indigenous
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* species suited to traffic treatments with very minimal maintenance, such as median plantings in
higher speed roads.
Appendix 3
10. Removal policy
Street trees will be assessed on a case by case basis and retained (default case) unless
removal is required as agreed to in the following events.
That Council agrees to the removal of a street tree when any of the following factors are evident
to an extent that retention of the tree cannot be justified:




The tree is dead
The tree is diseased or otherwise unhealthy and in poor condition that significantly
reduces its Safe useful Life Expectancy (SULE)
The tree is dangerous as a result of internal decay, broken or split limb as that
significantly reduces it SULE
Work improvements of infrastructure repair or maintenance around the tree will kill or
render the tree a hazard or significantly impact on the tree’s condition and its SULE (the
development of clear work practices, planning and programming of works to minimise
damage to trees should in place to reduce this instance of tree removal).
Trees are not removed for nuisance factors such as leaf (or other parts) drop, size, mowing
obstacle, allergy, grass or garden competition, animal droppings, shading or pest animal
problems. Although it is acknowledged that some residents become frustrated by these
factors, they are outweighed by the benefits of a sound, healthy tree.
All trees can shed branches and no guarantee of absolute safety can ever be given to a
living, dynamic organism. It would be unreasonable and unnecessary to remove every tree
on the basis that it may have the potential to cause harm or damage. There are programs
of regular inspection and assessment of trees for public safety.
That Council’s Open Space Units inspect and assess street trees, write reports and decide
whether the tree can be retained, pruned or treated in some other way or removed in line
with the criteria set out above. The resident who made the request for removal is notified of
this decision. If a tree is deemed diseased or dangerous but the nearby residents do not
want it to be removed, it may have to be removed despite the consultation, if that is the only
safe alternative. These residents should be notified of the removal and the reasons for the
removal. If the tree is to be removed, a decision will also be made to replace the tree. Some
trees were originally planted in inappropriate locations and will not be replaced in that
location. An alternate location will be chosen as close to the site as possible.
10.1
Request for tree removal grievance procedure
In the event that a resident requesting the removal of a tree is dissatisfied with the
recommendation arising from a tree inspection, they have the right of appeal to Council’s Unit
Manager Open Space Maintenance.
The tree will be assessed under the criteria as a significant tree (see page33 for description of
significant tree criteria) by an arborist from Moreland City Council Open Space Branch.
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10.1.1
Trees meeting Significant Tree criteria:
If the tree meets one of the values of the significant tree criteria (as noted on page 33), the
resident must submit:
A written submission explaining why the tree is requested to be removed along with any
supporting evidence they may have. If the tree is requested to be removed due to health
reasons a doctor’s certificate from a specialist in the health matter in question is required.
To better support the claim an arborist report prepared by a suitably qualified person that
contains the following is recommended, however not mandatory:
i.
General tree assessment including tree health, structure, form, useful life
expectancy and any other matter associated with arboricultural assessment.
ii.
A detailed tree risk assessment including the formula that was used.
iii. What remedial measures, if any, could be undertaken to reduce the risk and result
in the tree being a long-term landscape asset.
Once the written submission has been received by Council, it will be reviewed by the Street
Tree Coordinator and the tree shall be reassessed.
If the tree is determined to be removed and is deemed significant, it will be valued using an
established method of tree evaluation (see formulae for determining value at the end of this
policy). The street or section of street (in the case of a long street/road) will be surveyed. If 75
percent or more of the properties surveyed indicate that they don’t object to the tree being
removed, then the tree will be removed at a cost to the resident. The cost will include the
calculated value of the tree, plus an estimate of the cost of the tree and stump removal, in
addition to the cost of planting and establishing an advanced new tree for two years. If a
replacement tree is not warranted at the site then one will be planted as close as practical to the
site.
If Council’s view is unchanged after the review it will be referred to the Unit Manager Open
Space Maintenance who will have the final decision.
10.1.2
Trees not meeting Significant Tree criteria:
If the tree does not meet the significant tree criteria, the tree will be valued using an established
method of Tree Evaluation. A minimum of five properties in the vicinity of the tree will be
surveyed. If 75 percent of the properties surveyed indicate that they don’t object to the tree
being removed, then the tree will be removed at a cost to the resident. The cost will include the
calculated value of the tree, plus an estimate of the cost of removal of the tree and the stump in
addition to the cost of planting and establishing an advanced new tree for two years. If a
replacement tree is not warranted at the site then one will be planted as close as practical to the
site.
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10.1.3
Tree removal – Developments/Vehicle crossovers
It should be noted that the above tree removal policy also covers trees requested to be removed
for developments/subdivisions and vehicle crossovers. It should be assumed that street trees
will not be removed for these purposes and that residents or developers take into account the
location of street trees when designing building or contemplating vehicle crossings. Vehicle
crossings are not allowed within a minimum 3m of the edge of the tree canopy. In the case of
larger trees the minimum compliance tree preservation distance allowed should be in
accordance with the Australian Standard. If a property owner requests a tree be removed the
tree will be assessed by a Council’s arborist before a vehicle crossing permit is issued. If the
tree is mature and healthy, and the crossing permit is closer than the required TPZ of the
Australian Standard , then the vehicle crossing permit will be denied. If the tree is assessed
and is deemed not significant, the cost will include the calculated value of the tree, plus an
estimate of the cost of removal of the tree and the stump in addition to the cost of planting and
establishing an advanced new tree for two years. If a replacement tree is not warranted then
one will be planted as close as practical to the site.
10.1.4
Unauthorised tree removal/damage
If a tree on Council land is pruned, poisoned or removed without Council authority, the offender
may be fined in accordance with Council’s Local Law, Environmental and Civic Assets.
The offender will also pay the full cost of the value of the tree using established method of tree
evaluation, tree removal cost and stump (in the case of poisoning or vandalism that renders the
specimen unable to recover from the damage), in addition to the cost of planting and
establishing an advanced new tree for two years. If a replacement tree is not warranted at the
site then one will be planted as close as practical to the site.
10.1.5
Pruning of nature strip trees
Residents or property owners do not have the legal right to prune nature strip trees. Pruning
street trees is a skilled task with stringent safety requirements and is carried out by trained
Council staff. If trees are inappropriately pruned a fine may be issued.
10.2
Amenity Value Formula – City of Melbourne
This is the amenity value formula used by Moreland City Council.
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Appendix 4
Nature strip Beautification Guidelines for general public
3.1
Introduction
Nature strips are an important component of the streetscape. These guidelines outline benefits
of our city’s nature strips and are intended to offer information on suitable plantings and their
maintenance. Nature strips are the pieces of public land between the paved footpath (usually
concrete or asphalt) and the kerb. It is the responsibility of residents to maintain the nature strip
abutting their home. This typically involves regular mowing of grass, weeding and picking up
litter.
3.2
Benefits of nature strips
Vegetated nature strips provide a range of benefits to the community and the environment.
Nature strips can:

absorb rainwater and reduce stormwater runoff.

help to cool the surrounding area (transpiration by plants cools the air).

complement the natural settings of the neighbourhood such as street trees and residential
gardens.

provide fauna habitat.

visually soften the effect of the harder surfaces of road, footpath and driveway paving,
fences and buildings.

can provide some opportunities for food production
3.3
Alternative vegetation to turf grass
Moreland City Council supports beautification of nature strips with alternative plants to turf
grass. Allowing residents to plant out their nature strips can foster a sense of ownership within
the local community. The use of indigenous plants can enhance biodiversity and provide
habitat for local insects and birds. This type of planting is particularly beneficial in areas close
to local waterways and along nature corridors. The maintenance requirements of a welldesigned ground cover planting and mulch treatment can be less than traditional grassed nature
strip plantings.
Alternatives may also include productive gardens and no-dig gardens. Health risks from
contaminants and public safety impacts as outlined below are particularly important with these
plantings.
3.4
Design guidelines
3.4.1 Safety and access
Nature strip landscaping works must maintain adequate clearance, accessibility and visibility for
pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular traffic when using, entering or exiting an intersection or
driveway or footpath. Council will require that any works considered hazardous be removed and
made safe.
To ensure the nature strip planting is safe for all road users and does not inhibit access:
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
Maintain vegetation below a height of 0.5 metres to ensure adequate sight lines. Medium to
large shrubs and trees should not be planted.

Allow sufficient space so that people can access the street from the footpath and can open
a car door and easily get into and out of a car.

Hard landscaping elements, such as rocks and pavers, garden edging and planter boxes,
must not be used as they can be trip hazards.

Retain some level ground space for hard rubbish collection, garbage, recycling and green
waste bins.
3.4.2 Plant selection
The following are important considerations when selecting plants for nature strip beautification:

Plants considered to be environmental weeds must not be planted

Plants must be low growing (500 mm including the flowering height) to avoid any traffic
sighting problems

Indigenous plants can enhance biodiversity and are more likely to provide habitat for local
insects and birds.

Able to survive with natural rainfall. Current water restrictions should be followed and
irrigation systems are not to be installed.

Able to cover the ground effectively to compete with weeds and withstand occasional
pedestrian traffic

If plants are grown to be eaten, the nature strip soil should be tested for contaminants such
as lead and any other potential health risks understood. (Fruiting crops are better than root
crops or leafy vegetables). The nature strip is accessible to everyone and nothing can be
enforced to stop the public from helping themselves to what is grown there.
Suggested plants for nature strips
Plant type
Scientific name
Grass and tussock Dianella longifolia
plants
Lawn plants
Ground covers
Common name
Density (plants
/ m2)
Pale Flax Lily
4
Dianella revoluta
Spreading Flax Lily
9
Lomandra longifolia
Spiny-headed Mat-rush
4
Lomandra filiformis
Wattle Mat-rush
9
Themeda triandra
Kangaroo Grass
9
Poa labillardieri
Common Tussock Grass
4
Poa morrissii
Silky Tussock Grass
9
Microlaena stipoides
Weeping Grass
16
Dichondra repens
Kidney weed
16
Austrodanthonia
geniculata
Kneed Wallaby Grass
16
Myoporum parvifolium
Creeping Boobialla
4
Einadia nutans subsp.
Nodding Saltbush
4
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nutans
Wildflowers
Arthropodium strictum
Chocolate Lily
16
Brachyscome multifida
Cut-leaf Daisy
9
Bracteantha viscosa
Sticky Everlasting
9
Chrysocephalum
apiculatum
Common Everlasting
9
Kennedia prostrata
Running Postman
4
Linum marginale
Native Flax
9
Pelargonium australe
Austral Storks Bill
16
Teucrium racemosum
Grey Germander
4
Wahlenbergia communis Tufted Bluebell
16
3.4.3 Surface treatments
A mulch layer will help to maintain soil moisture and assist with weed control. The mulch
material selected must be stable under foot and remain contained within the nature strip.
Recommended treatments include composted organic mulch, pine bark mulch, recycled wood
chip mulch and granitic sand. Larger materials such as stones or river pebbles and granitic
sands/gravels should not be used.
Construction
Before starting any works, call ‘Dial Before You Dig’ or visit the website www.1100.com.au, to
find out about pipes and cabling under your nature strip. Changes to nature strip levels that
might interfere with drainage will not be permitted.
Cultivation will alleviate any soil compaction and improve plant growth and increase the
infiltration of rainwater. Avoid cultivating under the canopy of existing trees as this activity may
cut their roots and impact on their health.
No staking of plants or any net covering of plants is permissible as nature strips are in the public
domain and these could create a hazard.
3.4.4 Maintenance

Nature strip surface levels, including mulch, should be maintained within 40mm relative to
the level of the footpath or kerb.

Plant material must be maintained within the area of the nature strip.

Residents are to keep nature strips free of litter.

Dead plants, seed heads and weeds should be removed regularly to keep the site tidy (this
is particularly critical with productive gardens to remove harbours for pests and diseases
and stop potential seed dispersal).
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3.4.5 Approval process
Applications to beautify a nature strip need to be submitted to Council. The application must
contain a simple sketch plant that details the site including:

Property boundaries

Foot path and driveways

Existing street tree

Proposed planting

Schedule of plant species and densities (i.e. what plants and how many will be planted per
m2)
Council will consider requests for nature strip beautification subject to the following criteria.

The proposal is approved by Council prior to implementation

The cost of establishment, maintenance and renewal of the planting is borne by the resident
or landowner

Council and service authorities reserve the right to access existing and future infrastructure
assets. Disturbance resulting from access works will be reinstated to a neat finish only and
plants will not be replaced. Additional costs incurred to reinstate the planting will be borne
by the resident or landowner.

Residents will be required by Council to remove any inappropriate or inadequately
maintained nature strip landscaping.

Council has the right to remove any landscape considered inappropriate.
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Appendix 5
5.1 Policy Context - Overview
A number of Council strategies and plans have an important effect on the Street Landscape
Strategy including the:

Moreland Open Space Strategy

Moreland Health and Wellbeing Plan

Pedestrian Strategy

Climate Action Plan

Integrated Water Management

Moreland line clearance management plan
A summary of the goals and actions of these Council documents that are fundamental to the
Street Landscape Strategy is provided in the following section.
5.1.1 Moreland Open Space Strategy
The Moreland Open Space Strategy is the overarching landscape document for Moreland City
Council. The Moreland Street Landscape Strategy is one of the strategies that support its
implementation.
A goal of the Moreland Open Space Strategy (2012) is to achieve “a greener more liveable
Moreland”. Streetscapes play an important role in two strategies set to achieve this goal:
 Increase tree canopy and improve tree health to create an urban forest (Table 1).
 Expand open space and streetscape corridors as habitat links (vegetated corridors that
connect natural areas and therefore encourage biodiversity and provide space for
species to function).
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Table1. Selected elements from Council’s Open Space Strategy goal of “a greener more liveable
Moreland” that influence the Street Landscape Strategy
Objective Protect, restore and expand interconnected
open space corridors and habitat links
Increase the tree canopy in Moreland, and the
biodiversity and environmental quality of the
public domain
Strategy
Expand open space and streetscape
corridors as habitat links
Increase tree canopy and improve tree health
to create an urban forest
Action
Identify east / west habitat links and
nominate appropriate streetscape species to
provide habitat links between the existing
creek and railway corridors
a) Monitor and develop a program to
increase the extent of tree canopy in
Moreland.
b) Establish and adequately resource a
Park Tree Management Program to
provide arboricultural conservation,
enhancement, and management to
sustain the health and longevity of
trees in parks and reserves. This
should include an audit and
assessment of works required, a works
schedule and staged implementation.
c) Review, update and continue to
implement Council’s Street Landscape
Strategy to ensure landscapes are
linked throughout the municipality for
amenity and environmental needs
5.1.2 Moreland Health and Wellbeing Plan
Improve and encourage communities to be active in public and private settings is one objective
of the Moreland Health and Wellbeing Plan (2010-2014). The implementation of the Street
Landscape Strategy and continued tree planting for shade to assist in protection against skin
cancer are proposed actions to improve the amenity of streetscapes (Table 1).
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Table 1. Strategy and proposed actions that are relevant to streetscapes as part of the objective to
‘Improve and encourage communities to be active in public and private settings’
Strategy
Measurements – Community
Indicators
Proposed actions
2. Improve the
amenity of open
spaces and
streetscapes.
There are good parks and open
areas in your neighbourhood.

Implement the Moreland Open
Space Strategy.

Protect current open space from
building development.

Continue to investigate and
implement creatively designed
facilities in open space for both
visual pleasure and social
interaction.

Continue to plant trees for shade
to assist in protection against skin
cancer.

Implement recommendations from
the Merri Creek Trail Review.

Implement recommendations from
the Merri and Moonee Ponds
Creek Environs Strategies.

Implement the Street Landscape
Strategy.
5.1.3 Pedestrian Strategy
The Pedestrian Strategy is one of four plans that implement the Moreland Integrated Transport
Strategy. The vision of the Pedestrian Strategy is “to make the City of Moreland more
accessible to pedestrians, and to encourage more people to walk more often”. Walking is a
preferred mode of transport and improving the walking environment plays a role in promoting
this activity.
The quality of street landscape is a significant contributor to the walking environment. Street
trees provide shade to pedestrians and contribute to the amenity and comfort of the walking
environment. They are an important element in improving the walkability of a street and
neighbourhood.
5.1.4 Climate Action Plan
Moreland City Council is committed to contributing to the global response to climate change by
reducing greenhouse emission from Council operations and within the community. The Vision of
the Climate Action Plan (2007-2012) is to achieve zero net emissions for Council emissions by
2020 and zero net emissions for community emissions by 2030.
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Streetscapes are relevant to the climate action plan in a number of ways. Streets lined with
large trees are typically more pleasant to walk or cycle along. These treed streets can
encourage the community to travel more frequently by low carbon emission modes of transport
such as walking, cycling and using public transport. In addition, trees accumulate carbon as
they mature. Maximising the total size of the tree population within Moreland will increase the
storage of carbon.
Emissions Buildings
Asset Management / Capital Works
Action
Revise the Open Space and Landscape
Strategies to reflect:
Review and rationalize Council buildings.
Undertake purpose analysis and maintain
walkability and public access
-
When planning new or rationalising
existing buildings, facilities and
assets, ensure that walkability and
sustainable transport options are a
key consideration.
-
The impact of expected rainfalls on the
management of Councils open space
and sporting fields
-
The growing importance of trees as
carbon sinks in both public and private
spaces
5.1.5 Integrated Water Management Plan
Moreland City Council has developed the Integrated Water Management Plan (2009-10 – 201213) (IWMP) to set the direction for sustainable management of water resources for Council
operations and the Moreland community.
For both corporate (Council) and community actions the focus of the strategy is on the following
areas:

water conservation

stormwater reuse and water recycling

Stormwater quality and waterway health improvement.
Two priority areas ‘Roads, drainage and car parks’ and ‘Development, urban planning and
building construction’ are most relevant to the incorporation of WSUD systems into street
landscapes.
5.1.6 Roads, drainage and car parks
Council is responsible for the management and maintenance of a large percentage of road and
drainage infrastructure throughout the municipality. Council also manages a number of car
parks. In a highly developed area such as Moreland the stormwater runoff from roads, car parks
and other impervious surfaces causes significant levels of pollution in Moreland’s waterways.
The continuous process of maintaining and replenishing road and drainage assets presents an
opportunity to integrate WSUD and improve stormwater quality.
Objectives:

Reduce the pollutant loads entering the stormwater system and waterways in Moreland.

Ensure adequate resourcing for the planning, implementation and maintenance of WSUD
projects.

Incorporate best practice stormwater management into Council capital works projects.
Priority Actions:
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
Establish a WSUD working group with staff responsible for the identification, development,
implementation and maintenance of WSUD projects from Asset Planning, Open Space,
Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) and Engineering Operations.

Undertake modelling of current stormwater pollution loads for Moreland and identify priority
catchments and stormwater pollution reduction targets based on:

pollution loads/target pollutants

capital works program

Develop Council guidelines for the incorporation of WSUD treatment systems including
project identification (including modelling and selection criteria), design, construction and
maintenance.

Identify and implement projects through the capital works program to incorporate WSUD
treatment systems that are based on best practice design and construction and prioritised
based on Council WSUD guidelines and stormwater targets.

Identify and utilize partnership opportunities with external organisations to implement
WSUD projects.

Require all contractors to submit environmental management plans prior to the
commencement of works.

Include best practice WSUD stormwater treatment in all new facilities.
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