Published on Wednesday, 30 May 2018 at 1:00:00 PM
The City of Vincent is giving more power to its residents by turning the rule book on its head around street trees and verges, allowing them to create more active and inviting green and play spaces on their doorstep.
At its Council meeting on 29 May, the policies on street trees and verges were overhauled to reflect Council and community sentiment on the use of rope swings, tree decorations, edible gardens and native verges.
The amended policy for street trees allows residents to attach ladders, swings, cubbies and platforms to street trees, as well as decorations and lighting. The verge policy was also amended to allow residents to install raised garden beds, seats, logs, rocks and various forms of paving on their verge, subject to certain criteria being met.
“It is fantastic to see the rules change to reflect what is such a wonderful part of life in Vincent – kids playing outside and our community coming together over creative verge gardens,” said Mayor Emma Cole.
“Play equipment on our verge trees livens up our neighbourhoods. It brings kids outdoors, encouraging them to play together and have a sense of old time fun on the streets that is sometimes lacking in modern life.”
“We believe that as long as the tree and verge additions are safe and keep the street trees healthy, they should be allowed to stay and encouraged in our community,” she said.
“If a resident wishes to improve their verge to be a great place to play or grow veggies, I think our role as a local government is to say ‘yes’,” said Mayor Cole.
“I hope this change will encourage our community to make the most of this outdoor green space and turn their verges into places to create, connect and enjoy.”
The Street Trees Policy and Verge Treatments, Plantings and Beautifications Policy will soon be advertised for comment as part of the City of Vincent’s ongoing commitment to community engagement.
For more information contact the City of Vincent on 9273 6000 or visit vincent.wa.gov.au. To read The West's coverage of the story, click below.
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