Block 5 Section 27 Parkes - Tree Removal and Replacement at National Library of Australia Forecourt

On 22 June 2021 the National Capital Authority submitted a Works Approval application (WA102428) for the removal of the 38 Lombardy Poplar (Populus nigra ‘Italica’) trees and replacement with 28 Quercus robur ‘Fastigiata’ (Fastigiate English Oak) trees at the National Library of Australia Forecourt, located at Block 5 Section 27 Parkes (Parkes Place West). Quecrus robur ‘Fastigiata’ has been identified as the replacement species as it replicates the identified heritage character (columnar form, shape, size and leaf colour) of the  the existing poplars.  Lombardy poplar is a declared pest species in the ACT and cannot be replanted.

As part of the works, existing grass and topsoil within the Forecourt is to also be removed and replaced with new soil, irrigation and turf to provide optimal growing conditions for the trees. Whilst the existing four rows of trees are to be retained the number of trees within each row is to be reduced from eleven to seven to reduce competition.

The NCA will assess this works approval application and determine the consistency of the works with the National Capital Plan (the Plan). The Plan focuses on planning matters and the quality of design. These policies ensure that Canberra is a city worthy of its status as the national capital.

The Plan requires that the heritage assessment of all proposals subject to NCA planning approval are assessed in accordance with the provisions of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act). The approval of these works by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) on 24 June 2021 (http://epbcnotices.environment.gov.au/referralslist/# Reference No. 2021/8950) in accordance with the provisions of the EPBC Act satisfies the heritage conditions of the Plan and will guide the NCA’s assessment of this matter.

The NCA welcomes feedback on this application by 5.00pm (AEST) Friday 17 September 2021. 

Submissions can be made via email to WAconsultation@nca.gov.au or in writing to GPO Box 373, Canberra ACT 2601.

Please contact the NCA for further information on (02) 6271 2888.

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WA Block 5 Section 27 Parkes