INCREASING the number of trees in urban parts of the Hawkesbury to help cool it down in summer will be the subject of a Council report.
At the December 12 meeting, Hawkesbury Council voted to receive a report into a policy and methods to increase the ‘tree canopy’ in the region.
The Notice of Motion was moved by Greens councillor Danielle Wheeler, who said there were a number of benefits to planting more trees on our streets.
Cr Wheeler said Blacktown Council’s ‘Cool Streets’ program was a model example for Council to follow.
The program, according to its website: “combines scientific research and public engagement, working with local communities to implement effective street tree plantings that provide shade in heat-affected urban areas and reduce CO2 emissions.”
The program has won a number of awards.
Council will also examine similar work done in Penrith and Leichhardt councils by UTS researchers.
Liberal councillor Nathan Zamprogno said he liked the idea of more trees in the electorate.
“I would like to see this just because it is nice,” he said.
“If you look at some new developments that have had all their tree cover taken down it is depressing.
“Tree canopy is one of the most significant things that contributes to livability of an area.”
Deputy Mayor and Labor councillor Barry Calvert said he hoped more trees would bring bird life to the area.
The Notice of Motion was passed unanimously.