Jennifer Pittorino
Residents living on High Street, Newport, have been left in the dark over the sudden removal of the street’s trees.
It was a quiet December morning when residents witnesses the trees and greenery being removed.
Long time resident Tamsin Beale said residents were disappointed they not to have been informed of the decision prior to the removals carried out by VIVA Energy.
“Contractors came in and started chain sawing and mulching down all of the vegetation that was growing in garden beds along the street,” she said.
“We had spherical garden beds which had lots of vegetation and plants and trees in it which all got removed.
“We also have huge gum trees which they are saying are going to be taken next.”
Ms Beale said VIVA energy attribued the removals to pipe-works and safety reasons.
“They said the trees were pruned, but the way they butchered the trees was something else,” she said.
“This was the first we had heard about these works.
“The terminal manager wasn’t aware of the project, and neither was Hobsons Bay council.”
A VIVA Energy spokesperson said the company is now developing a revegetation program for the street.
“This will include planting more appropriate species of trees to provide a safe, long-term solution that sustains the amenity of the street,” they said.
Ms Beale said the growth of certain trees can take 10 years and the effects of having no trees is immediate.
“With the trees gone it removes the buffer and screening, now we have light issues with light going into properties and homes,” she said.
“Noise is also more evident as we live next to a terminal. We have these random noises on and off throughout the day.
“So it has really caused a lot of emotional distress for residents.”
VIVA Energy said in the interim it was making adjustments to lighting.
“We are exploring other solutions to reduce lighting and noise impacts which could be affecting local residents,” the spokesperson said.
“Regrettably, on this occasion, Viva Energy failed to notify High Street residents about the work and provide the opportunity for consultation on the work program.
“Viva Energy owns and operates a number of fuel pipelines to safely and reliably supply Victoria with the fuel it needs. In 2022, Viva Energy engaged a qualified arborist to survey and assess trees near its pipelines , these trees were recommended for removal.”
