I write on behalf of neighbours and concerned community members about recent notices to remove the trees on Lawson Street. We request an urgent review of this decision, a halt to action until further consultation.
The paperbarks are mature, over 10 metres high and provide cooling shade. Their resident native birds, possums and visiting flying foxes should not be disturbed. We should be encouraging our city to stay green, not destroying existing pockets of wildlife.
The reasons for this request include: the need for a review in light of the proposed new exit at Redfern station which will syphon thousands of students down Little Eveleigh and Wilson streets rather than Lawson Street; resurfacing the footpath should not include the destruction of the majority of trees; the proposed replacement trees (spotted gums) will not provide a broad shaded canopy; the loss of so many trees simultaneously will result in increased heat to the streetscape and our homes, as well as reduce privacy; the owners of rental properties in the street have not been contacted about the impending street works.
