A tree-mendous improvement

Exciting plans for the now bare Genazzano Road island in Seatides will ensure that it will become an indigenous friendly icon along the M4.

After the initial shock of the chopped down Casuarina trees at Seatides, councillor Geoff Pullan said that he had received a lot of positive feedback since the trees have been removed.

“It will be a great improvement and the island will still function as a picnic spot, an overflow parking area and a space for informal traders to sell their goods,” he said.

Stuart Whittaker, who handled the removal of the category two alien invader trees, said it took 21 truck loads to remove the roots and stems and 12 truck loads of branches until the land was completely cleared and ready to be landscaped.

Landscape architect, Bernice Rumble said the plan is to keep the landscaping simple and clean with careful and clever tree placement for shade, while keeping the side lines open and visible for traffic flow.

According to Rumble, no shrubs will be planted, as bush is a difficult thing to manage and can be a security risk, as it creates hiding places.

“We are going bold by planting Erythrina lysistemon (coral trees) in the center, to create a high impact, colourful area, with just a few Ficus natalensis (Natal fig trees) scattered around the edge, which will encourage bird life,” she said.

Ramu Govender from the parks department said that they will maintain and clean the island.

Although some of the trees will be provided by the parks department, any nurseries willing to sponsor trees will be greatly appreciated.

If you would like to get involved, please send an email to councillor Geoff Pullan at geoffpullan@iafrica.com