It has been rather interesting to see and read the community discussion, following The Bugle’s article “Should Kiama keep iconic but imported Norfolk Pines?”

Thank you, The Bugle for publishing this topic.

In context, the resolution that was passed unanimously by Kiama councillors in the February council meeting not only sought to review the status of Norfolk Pines in Kiama’s development control plans, but as part of a wider strategy of Urban Greening.

Such a strategy is also focused on roadside vegetation management, broader tree policies as well as adapting to the risks of climate change, local water and food security.

But with Norfolk Pines, it’s important to note that this is the start of a conversation, not an end to one.

Certainly to prevent misinformation, there is no intention to begin a program of en-masse removal of the Norfolk Pines or removing the heritage protection of certain trees in the Kiama township.

In Kiama, some of the Norfolk Pines are 120-130 years old.

An amazing history for these trees for our local area.

Though, there remains questions about what happens when these trees reach end of life, which is not far away.

Do we replace them with the same species?

Or should we consider something else?

We also need to consider the ongoing maintenance and risks of Norfolk Pines, whether they are appropriately located and ultimately, whether they are appropriately categorised within our local planning regulations.

The Urban Greening Strategy will take a few years to work on at council, and the community will be able to have its say on it.

Stuart Larkins

Kiama Councillor

Councillor Disclaimer: this content represents the views of Councillor Stuart Larkins, and does not necessarily represent the views of Kiama Municipal Council.