Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is on track to plant 5,500 new trees in Parramatta as part of the Parramatta Light Rail project, surpassing the 80 per cent milestone with 4,642 trees planted. By 2025, the city will boast more trees than ever before.
Tree offsets have been achieved by the contractors within and around the light rail corridor to replace trees that needed to be removed for the project. This was complemented by a tree planting program in partnership with the City of Parramatta outside the corridor.
Some of the trees delivered include 76 cuttings of significant fig trees harvested in May 2020, 800L mature trees for instant canopy and food trees for the endangered Grey-Headed Flying-Fox.
Through careful planning and innovative approaches, the project minimised tree impacts, retaining as many trees as possible and resulting in fewer removals than initially estimated in the Environmental Impact Statement.
The Parramatta Light Rail’s Tree Offset Strategy has been recognised as a finalist for NSW awards through the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects and has boosted the project’s record-breaking Infrastructure Sustainability rating.
Visit Parramatta Light Rail Tree Offset Strategy to find out more.
TfNSW is also reminding residents to be watchful around the new light rail network as testing ramps up ahead of its opening.
Parramatta Light Rail is in its final testing phase, with more trams running along the 12-kilometre alignment between Westmead and Carlingford through the day and night, ahead of services starting in the coming months.
Recent unsafe behaviours and near-miss incidents during light rail testing highlight the critical need for drivers, bike riders and pedestrians to pay extra attention when near the tracks. This includes not driving on or queuing across the tracks, and pedestrians only crossing at dedicated crossings.
The community is reminded to stop, listen and look around when driving, walking or riding near the tracks and play their part to stay safe around light rail. The 63-tonne trams are quiet, move faster than walking speed and do not stop quickly or easily.
The project’s tree planting efforts support the need for green spaces in anticipation of Parramatta’s growth. It highlights the positive outcomes of well-planned urban infrastructure projects, enhancing the quality of life for current and future residents.
National Tree Day was celebrated on 28 July.
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