Council Endorses Removal of Trees in Stage 2 & 3 of CBD Redevelopment

Published on 14 October 2026

Southern Grampians Shire Council will progress to detailed design for stages two and three of the Hamilton CBD redevelopment, following Council endorsement to not retain any of the London Plane Trees within the scope of the project.  

Following the endorsement of the stage one Tree Audit in December 2025, which incorporated feedback from the Project Advisory Group (PAG), Council applied the endorsed Tree Audit assessment methodology to the design development of stages two and three. The same methodology was adopted to ensure impacts of the existing Plane trees on surrounding infrastructure were assessed consistently across the Hamilton CBD Revitalisation Project. 

Glenn Rundell Consulting was again engaged by Council to undertake the Tree Impact Audit for the 38 Plane trees within stage two and 28 Plane trees within stage three. 

After reviewing the detailed Tree Impact Audit reports, which outlined substantial impact to surrounding buildings, footpaths and road infrastructure, the PAG advised their general support for the removal of the existing Plane trees in stages two and three, consistent with the approach adopted for stage one. Group members considered the trees provide limited long-term value where they are causing impacts to buildings, infrastructure and businesses, and that a consistent approach should be taken across all three project stages. 

"The Advisory Group's advice was clear. They supported a consistent approach to tree management across the project, considering safety, tree longevity, maintenance requirements and impacts on surrounding infrastructure. Importantly, they also stressed the need to protect Hamilton's green character through thoughtful replacement planting and to ensure the works are delivered in a well-managed and transparent way,” said Southern Grampians Shire Council Cr and Advisory Group Chair, Afton Barber. 

“The trees have long been an iconic fixture within our streets, but their impact cannot be ignored. We need streets that are safe for residents and visitors of all abilities so they can feel confident to shop and socialise in Hamilton. 

"The removal of trees in stage two and three will not be initiated until funding has been received with construction not due to start until the completion of stage one." 

Council will now provide direction to project consultants Group GSA to proceed with concept designs for stages two and three of the redevelopment, ensuring feedback from the Project Advisory Group, is included.  

A tree replacement strategy with be prepared as part of the project's detailed design. New trees will be selected to suit local conditions, provide future shade and greenery, and support long-term canopy growth. Planting locations will be designed to work with existing infrastructure, while modern planting systems and root barriers will help ensure healthy tree growth and protect surrounding pavements. Tree removal and replacement planting will be staged alongside construction and supported by ongoing maintenance to ensure the new trees establish successfully and continue to enhance the CBD into the future. 

Concept designs for stages two and three will come back to Council and the community for further engagement in 2027 prior to their adoption.