Community comment invited on Bulcock Street Figs

The future of Caloundra's Bulcock Street figs is now open for community discussion---there are four management options available and council is inviting residents to have their say.
 
From 8 September until 6 October, residents can submit feedback on the Fig Tree discussion paper at the Caloundra customer service centre, www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or at a special community consultation forum, 22 September.
 
Deputy mayor Tim Dwyer said the community forum will be held at the Caloundra Events Centre from 5.30pm-7pm on Wednesday 22 September 2010.
 
"The forum is an opportunity for the community to ask questions about the four options available for managing the Bulcock Street fig trees," Cr Dwyer said.
 
"There are some significant challenges in managing the figs and it's important that we arm the community with the facts before asking them to submit feedback.
 
"Council selected option three as their management preference which would see the figs replaced over a period of 20 years with a suitable species.
 
"Undoubtedly, the figs are a major element of the character of Bulcock Street so it will be important to select a replacement species that offers natural shade and protects the green leafy feel of the street.
 
"I encourage anyone interested in having their say to come along to the forum and input into the process.
 
"Mr Peter Nichols, Council's parks technical officer/arborist will be on hand to outline each of the options and to answer the more technical questions the community will no doubt have."
 
The discussion paper can be viewed on council's website www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
 
To book a place at the forum, residents should call council's customer service centre on 5475 7272 or email ISPMB@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.