Consider the value of existing or future trees in the project area, against the value of proposed infrastructure or significant site.
Ascertain whether risks of damage to trees or infrastructure can be mitigated as part of the design
Consider whether soil hydrology will be altered and how existing trees may be impacted
Consider whether remaining permeable space will be sufficient to sustain the tree/s into the future,
Consider how outcomes for trees can be improved (i.e. whether sheet flow can be directed towards trees or if drainage or soils can be improved)
Investigate whether setbacks to trees can be increased, pathways re-routed or infrastructure relocated
Use existing trees to frame and enhance the design
Accommodate new trees in the design
Wherever possible, use existing hard surface footprints to minimise disturbance to existing trees
Examine whether associated infrastructure will impact trees (for example conduits for lighting, or new sub-soil drains)
Determine whether site access requirements or construction methodology will create additional impacts for trees
Establish whether design will necessitate tree pruning
(A) Existing tree requirements
Establish whether existing trees are in good condition and will be able to tolerate and respond to changed growing conditions
Remove unwanted weed species, or trees in poor health that will likely decline as a result of construction activity
Investigate whether existing trees have been disturbed previously
Clarify whether proposed design elements can be retrofitted around existing trees without significant impact
Explore the potential for sensitive design treatments to be used (i.e. no dig or elevated treatments) to safeguard existing tree roots
Verify whether adequate undisturbed permeable space will remain
Confirm that soil moisture and structure will be preserved in critical areas of root growth
(B) New tree requirements
Select trees suitable for the location, considering all current and future requirements. See the Sunshine Coast Street Tree Master Plan for further guidance
Establish whether the planting space and soil volume is sufficient for the expected mature size of tree(s)
Explore opportunities for the inclusion of innovative design treatments for example those that allow for natural spread of tree roots or mimic the natural water cycle.
Check availability of stock of selected species. Consider using smaller stock
Resolve whether maintenance requirements are achievable. Consider irrigation requirements for example.
Note: Further guidance and clarification of the content on this page, can be found in the relevant sections of this information sheet.
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Sunshine Coast Open Space Landscape Infrastructure Manual (LIM) DISCLAIMER
Disclaimer
Information contained in this document may change without notice and you should use the current material available from Council’s website and not rely on material previously printed or stored by you.
All figures and diagrams are intended to be used as an aid to design and include Council’s preferred elements but they are not intended to be prescriptive and may need to be varied as dictated by site specific factors. While Council has exercised reasonable care in preparing this document, it does not warrant or represent that it is accurate or complete. The Council will not accept responsibility for any loss, damage, cost or expense that you may incur as a result of the use of or reliance upon any material contained in this document.
This document is produced to convey general information and is not intended to constitute advice whether professional or legal. Any reference to legislation in this document is not an interpretation of the law. It is to be used as a guide only. Consult relevant authority websites for current documents, revisions and amendments.
Where a particular product or supplier is profiled in this document, Council is NOT nominating this product or supplier as the selected choice. Product/supplier information has been provided to allow users to source products which contain the correct elements required for Council embellishments. Each product profiled states ‘or equivalent’ which means that different products may be supplied provided they satisfy the identified performance criteria, recommended standards, equal access guidance and product specifications.
Product design, manufacture and installation requires appropriately qualified people to provide site specific solutions to ensure the embellishment is appropriately adapted to local conditions and data.
This document does not override requirements stipulated in a development approval. Project specific variations may be appropriate as a result of site, environmental or other constraints. Any variations to these standards must be approved in writing by council prior to commencement of variation works. Components of this document may be used within a contract document but users should undertake their own investigations to confirm the information is suitable for this purpose.
Drawings contained in this document are NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION.
Details in this document are deemed to be the minimum standard and the user may wish to apply a higher standard subject to approval by council.
Acknowledgements
Council wishes to thank all contributors and stakeholders involved in the development of this document.
Copyright
Sunshine Coast Regional Council (Council) supports and encourages the distribution of its material however, copyright protects this document. Council has no objection to this material being reproduced but only if council is recognised as the owner of the copyright and this material remains unaltered.
