Beach tree to be cut down

A large Norfolk Pine tree on Margate's waterfront is to be removed as two-thirds of it is diseased and dead.

The tree, by Margate Beach boat ramp amenities building, has “likely succumbed to a fungal pathogen”, according to an arborist report.

Councillor Karl Winchester (Div 6) said, on Facebook: “This will be undertaken quickly ahead of storm season as it will likely become a risk to pathway users as well as the new toilet block.

“This removal is not to facilitate the amenities upgrade project, but follows the identification of the rapid decline and instability of the tree and the associated risk to public safety.”

The tree will be replaced. Cr Winchester says the “current estimate is that six 45-litre trees will be planted in appropriate locations to offset the loss and enhance canopy coverage”.

“I’ve raised concern about the health of Norfolk Pines and I’m advised Council maintains a tree database and regularly inspects trees," he said.

“This tree was inspected post ex-Cyclone Alfred as part of an inspection of all foreshore trees.

“There were no issues flagged at that time and the decline in health has been very rapid after that point.”

The existing amenities block is to be demolished and replaced with a “new Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant amenities block”, Cr Winchester said.

This will include linkage pathways, landscaping and an external shower. The work is expected to take 16 weeks.