People with views on how publicly-owned trees in Christchurch should be managed are being encouraged to give feedback on Christchurch City Council’s Draft Tree Policy.

The Draft Tree Policy spells out how the Council plans to manage the planting, protection, maintenance and removal of trees in parks, reserves, roads and other public places that it looks after.

It also outlines under what circumstances trees will be removed and provides guidance on how public requests for the removal of the trees should be dealt with.

“The Draft Tree Policy gives guidance on the daily management of trees, provides a consistent approach to managing trees and a clear process for decision making when it comes to tree-related issues,’’ says Council Head of Parks Andrew Rutledge.

“It also recognises the many benefits trees play and encourages an increase in plantings throughout Council-owned land. We want to hear people’s thoughts on the policy so we’re inviting people to make submissions through our Have Your Say webpage. The deadline for submissions is Monday 12 October.

Mr Rutledge says work is also under way on a wider Urban Forest Plan, which will provide strategic direction for all Christchurch trees.

“The Urban Forest Plan will look at scenarios like increasing our tree population, improving biodiversity outcomes and considering the role trees play in addressing climate change.’’