The track through pines at Western Springs Lakeside Reserve is to remain closed.
The track closed after storms in April when eight trees fell and others lost branches. Auckland Council arborists say it will remain closed to protect the public.
Council has received several reports concerned about the decline of trees and says there is an increased risk of partial and whole tree failure, including sequential failures – where one tree fails and causes the next in the stand to also fall.
Because of the unacceptable risk to neighbouring properties and park users, the track will be closed until further notice.
Restoring native bush to the area
A resource consent application to remove the stand of pines is being prepared for Waitematā Local Board, which has a plan to restore native bush to the area.
Board deputy chair Shale Chambers says plans to restore native bush to the area will go through the notified consent process.
“Anyone who wants to question the advice we have relied on will have their opportunity and the board will be bound by the outcome. If the project gets consent, the pine removal phase could proceed.
"Locals and interested parties would then be involved in consultation on the future of the area and the restoration project, as promised.”
The track is expected to reopen after the pine trees are removed, subject to the consent being approved.
