Council chops down Gloucester pool shade trees

WHEN the Gloucester Olympic pool reopened recently, pool patrons, particularly those with children, were upset to find that two mature shade trees near the pool had been cut down.

The trees had provided shade to pool users for many years.

Local Jess Hay, who regularly uses the pool with her children, was nearby when she heard the chainsaws and saw the trees being destroyed.

After an unsatisfactory conversation with a pool employee, she contacted the MidCoast Council and spoke to the person apparently responsible for the removal of the trees and was told that the trees were not dying, but that their roots were getting into the pool and that they were dropping their leaves.

“I was told that the Council also plans to cut down all the other beautiful shade trees and that they would be replaced,” said Jess.

“However, families using the pool are very upset because they need shade when using the pool.”

“There should have been proper community consultation, but there was none.

“We have no idea what the Council’s plan is going forward, and the trees should not have been removed without proper replacements to provide much needed shade.”

James McRae and his three young children are regular users of the pool.

“I’m concerned that removing the shade trees from the Gloucester pool will make the area much less usable during hot, sunny days, especially for families with young kids like ours”, said James.

“The natural shade the trees provide allows us to stay longer at the pool, relax, and enjoy the space without baking in the sun.

“If the trees really do have to go, it would be great to see them replaced with evergreens if leaf litter is the issue.

“Artificial shade and concrete just don’t compare to the comfort of sitting under real trees.”

Mid Coast Council was contacted by NOTA for comment about why the trees were removed and its plans for the future, but did not respond.

By John WATTS