Borough of Queenscliffe will further protect the environment and address climate change issues through its adopted Vegetation Management policy.
Councillors unanimously accepted the policy during its Wednesday, May 28, meeting, which will guide a planned and integrated approach to managing vegetation across the borough.
Councillor Isabelle Tolhurst said the policy would help enhance Queenscliff’s natural, urban and formal green spaces.
“The role that feedback and community input has played in getting this policy to where it is, I think it’s really strong,” she said.
“I look forward to seeing the subsequent policies or operating procedures stem from this and hope it’s an effective tool for us to enhance the environment.
“It has some ambitious targets around increasing things like tree canopy to 30 per cent, and it is also a policy that applies to all public land managed by the borough.
“There are strong principles and commitments to preserving and enhancing native vegetation and managing weeds, including specific weeds endemic to the borough as opposed to those of national or state significance.”
The policy’s objectives included maintaining and enhancing the distinct character of Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff’s townships while promoting livability and cultural integrity.
Council also accepted a notice of motion to request a comprehensive report on the Climate Emergency Response Plan be prepared and presented to the August council meeting.
The report will help inform the plan’s review and ensure community and councillors made decisions based on comprehensive, factual and transparent reporting.
