Redcliffe locals are up in arms over what they consider a heartless decision to remove some Moreton Bay fig trees that have graced Prince Edward Parade for over half a century.
Affectionately known as the “Cathedral Fig Walk,” the canopy of trees has been a source of local pride and a beloved fixture on the oceanside road. Many residents considered the Moreton Bay fig trees iconic, lending character to the area’s landscape over the years.
That’s why the decision to remove the trees, reportedly made to address concerns about power line interference, has sparked outrage in the community.
One local resident expressed his frustration, labelling the decision “a disgrace.” He took to social media to voice his concerns.
“These Moreton Bay Figs are an icon for Redcliffe Parade, and without notice, the council or energy company are butchering the tree arbour and our icon,” the resident posted in a private Facebook group. “Before we know it, there will be nothing left. It’s time to stop this butchering and vandalism!”
The sentiment was widely shared among the community, with many residents expressing sadness at the loss of the “beautiful” trees and questioning the necessity of their removal.
“A shame, some idiot thought it was a good idea. They were beautiful,” one resident commented, while another deemed it “a very poor decision.”
In the comments section of a photo posted on a local Facebook group, some residents speculated that the decision might have been made for safety reasons due to powerline interference. However, the poster remained critical, suggesting that alternative solutions, such as burying power lines underground, should be explored to preserve the beloved fig trees.
In response to the backlash, the Moreton Bay Council offered a statement but did not explicitly confirm the reasons for the trees’ removal. They did, however, assert their commitment to not maintaining trees that posed a risk to power lines.
“If further trimming is required once the tree has been trimmed away from the power lines or phone lines, please contact council,” a spokesperson stated.
Published 5-Sept-2023