City of Launceston's first Nature Strip Policy

Published on 21 August 2020

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Councillors have unanimously endorsed the City of Launceston's first Nature Strip Policy at yesterday's ordinary meeting.

Mayor Albert van Zetten said the policy provided certainty around the management of nature strips across the municipality.

"Large trees and green spaces, including nature strips, play an important role in defining the image and culture of our City and our suburbs, while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of our streets," Mayor van Zetten said.

"Over the years, the Council has received a number of requests from landowners to modify their nature strips in some way.

"Often, this has proven difficult for officers to address as each response needs to be consistent with the local urban environment.

"However, this policy now provides a framework whereby Council officers and landowners can have a discussion around the development of nature strips rather than providing a defined set of rules."

Mayor van Zetten said that as long as nature strips are kept in a safe and well-maintained condition, and provided protection for any underground assets, pedestrians and cyclists, then the Council would be supportive of a range of plantings and treatments.

"For example, you may want to plant some small shrubs or have mulch, pine bark or certain types of gravel in your nature strip," Mayor van Zetten said.

"Under our new policy, a number of those are now permitted - as long as you discuss these options with the Council first.

"Ultimately, the Council really wants to encourage property owners to recognise the value of their nature strips and take pride in maintaining them."

Any resident interested in undertaking work on their nature strip must apply in writing to the Council for approval prior to undertaking any works.

A copy of the Council's Nature Strip Policy is available to read here.(PDF, 313KB)

 

 

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