Dozens of trees to be removed around Rotorua in coming weeks

Dozens of trees around Rotorua will be removed over the coming weeks, following concerns about their safety, leaf fall and shading.

In a statement, Rotorua Lakes Council said a portion of Steeles Lane Reserve would be closed for about five weeks from this Monday while contractors worked to remove 23 eucalyptus trees.

"Similar to work underway to remove trees in Blomfield Gully, council is responding to requests from the community to have the trees removed due to concerns raised by the community, especially the surrounding neighbourhood, about safety, leaf fall and shading."

It said preparation work at Steeles Lane Reserve was under way with physical work expected to begin from Monday, weather permitting.

"While work takes place parts of the reserve will be closed to members of the public and we ask that people adhere to any safety instructions on signage around the work site."

It said access to Old Quarry Rd and Western Heights High School would still be possible but would be controlled between 9am and 3pm daily.

Following completion of the work, replacement planting would take place.

The smallest branches and other debris will be mulched. Large logs will be sold to off-set the cost of the work. All other wood will be made available to the public for firewood.

A number of "dead standing" or leaning trees adjacent to Long Mile and Tarawera roads are also to be felled and that work is expected to happen this week, weather permitting.

Felling will begin on Long Mile Rd at 8am tomorrow, moving towards the corner of Tarawera Rd and then up Tarawera Rd from about 9am until the work is completed, finishing with trees in the fenced area opposite Forest Pl.

It may be possible to complete the work in a day, weather permitting, it said.

"This will mean Long Mile Rd will be closed periodically as trees are felled and while areas are made safe again, at which point the road will be re-opened while contractors prepare for the next tree. Tarawera Rd will be closed periodically in the same way. Both roads will have traffic management in place and spotters for pedestrian traffic.

"Council apologises for any inconvenience the work may cause. We ask for patience from Long Mile Rd users. Contractors will be working as efficiently as possible to minimise disruption while undertaking the job safely."