Thousands of trees and plants will revitalise the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre site in Norville as the development progresses.
As part of initial earthworks to the area at Pyefinch Boulevarde, around 30 plants were recently removed along the Walker Street frontage and in the middle of the site.
Mayor Jack Dempsey reassured the community that the trees were assessed for environmental significance before the removal and said they would be replaced.
“Many of the trees removed from the site were identified as non-native/non-endemic or pest species,” he said.
“We have retained the large fig trees in the area and there are extensive plans to revegetate the entire site with many thousands of trees and shrubs.”
Mayor Dempsey said a huge variety of trees and shrubs would be added to the site in the future.
“In total, more than 35,000 trees and plants will be incorporated into this site,” he said.
“That includes a total of 526 trees, from 120 broad leafed paperbarks to 127 tuckeroos, 39 banksias, 24 red forest gum trees and much more, the space is set to flourish.”
Mayor Dempsey said revegetation of the area would begin in around 18 months, once construction works had been finalised.
He said there were many benefits involved.
“Trees have a positive impact on our environment, health and community,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“They help to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas entering the atmosphere, prevent erosion, provide habitat for biodiversity and give shade.
“This area is in the same vicinity as Saltwater Creek, which is also under consideration for a naturalisation process.
“Once complete, both areas will link up to become environmental assets that provide multiple community benefits.”
Aquatic centre project
The Bundaberg Aquatic Centre construction is the single biggest contract undertaken in Bundaberg Regional Council’s history, requiring a head contractor with specialised skills and expertise.
Head contractor Woollam officially took over the site of this month with construction works underway.
The Bundaberg Aquatic Centre has been funded with support from the Queensland Government Works for Queensland program.
Find out more about the project here.
So what about councillors voting to use tax payers rates for legal fees when sued a conflict of interest.Means no one qualified for infrastructure either
It is a great shame that the row of trees adjacent to the arts precinct have been removed. These rooms are an important social gathering venues for older residents, but since they are not air conditioned, and now lack shade, they will be most unpleasant to use in the summer. How many years until the new trees are big enough to provide shade?