THE recent removal of a century-old tree in Darlington has left residents calling on the Shire of Mundaring for increased transparency in the process of removing established trees.

The 28m maritime pine, a landmark at the Darlington Tennis Club for more than a century, was removed earlier this month following a risk assessment presented to council that identified root instability and a potential falling risk for pedestrians.

Darlington resident and arborist at Bowden Tree Consultancy, Brad Bowden said the community was stunned at the decision to remove the established tree.

“The Darlington community has suffered a devastating loss after removing one of its oldest known residents,” he said.

“It’s resulted in a loss of amenity, loss of canopy, loss of history, and loss of foraging and night roost habitat for threatened fauna.”

Mr Bowden said there is a need for increased communication from the council to residents when significant landmarks like the maritime pine are required to be removed.

“The council is responsible for notifying the community when a development proposal such as a new building, change of land use, or rezoning requires public comment,” he said.

“How about they notify the local community when removal of a high-value tree is proposed.”

As the shire currently develops its Local Planning Scheme 5 to reinforce environmental safeguards for private land as reported in Calls for stronger tree protection in Mundaring, Mr Bowden warns that losing established public trees undermines those efforts.

“Perth is facing a tree canopy crisis, and if we want liveable suburbs as more heatwaves become the norm, we need to retain and expand our tree cover,” he said.

When contacted for comment, the Shire of Mundaring said the removal followed a report from an independent arborist which confirmed issues with the tree’s structural integrity.

“Although the tree appeared healthy above ground, the assessment identified an unacceptable level of risk in a highly trafficked pedestrian area,” a council spokesperson said.

“The Darlington Progress Association was informed of the arborist’s findings prior to removal and after making their own enquiries supported the decision.

“Public safety must remain the shire’s primary consideration when managing trees on public land, and tree removal is always the last resort.

“The shire has worked collaboratively with local groups for many years to support additional planting and remains committed to protecting the canopy across the region.”