Fremantle asks for feedback on distressed fig trees in Kings Square

FREMANTLE residents will get the chance to comment on the future of two distressed moreton bay fig trees from Kings Square.

Kings Square project director Russell Kingdomsaid the City had been monitoring the Moreton Bay figs in Kings Square and Fremantle since 2008.

“More recent assessments have shown a rapid decline in health of two of the trees that were being retained as part of the Kings Square public realm concept design,” he said.

“The council will be seeking community feedback soon to help decide on whether to keep these trees or replace them with mature, healthy trees.”

In a report to Council, one of the unwell fig trees, which is 120 to 140 years old, had been reported to be in significant decline, with damage done to the roots in the 1980s and has 80 to 90 per cent foliage loss.

The other tree had improved health until Wednesday, March 14, when the tree had a ‘limb failure’ where a large branch fell to the footpath below.

This follows the tree relocation which began earlier this month with a london plane tree being relocated elsewhere in the square.

Mr Kingdom said there were plenty of curious onlookers who were intrigued by the process.

“The london plane trees were carefully prepared for around 12 months for this relocation, which included the trimming of roots and extra irrigation,” he said.

“By moving them in the cooler months and ensuring they are given a good supply of water, we’re confident they’ll flourish in their new locations.

“Following their relocations, the majority of trees in Kings Square will be far away enough from any building activities to prevent any damage.”

Any trees closer to demolition/construction activities will be carefully managed with fencing and exclusion zones.

The community will be able to comment on the business plan on My Say Freo website until Thursday July 5.