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An Old and Valuable Tree in Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui, was removed to ensure public safety after it was found to have the risk of collapse due to damage by the typhoon, a spokesman for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said today (July 29).
Listed on the Register of Old and Valuable Trees (OVTs), the 19-metre-tall Albizia Lebbeck tree, registration number LCSD YTM/72, was located at the courtyard of Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre in Kowloon Park.
The spokesman said the tree was last inspected in early February this year and no irregularities were found.
"After the passage of the typhoon, the department staff found that the tree trunk was split open by the strong wind. As the broken area was too large, the tree trunk was seriously damaged. The tree had a risk of collapse with its structure and stability severely undermined. We decided to remove the tree as early as possible to ensure public safety," the spokesman said.
"Apart from the one removed today, there are 47 OVTs in Kowloon Park. The LCSD has inspected these OVTs and confirmed that they are in stable condition."
The spokesman reiterated that the department would continue to adopt a prudent approach in managing the trees under its care. For trees in poor condition, removal will be the last resort, and only when there are no other viable options.
Ends/Sunday, July 29, 2012
Issued at HKT 19:46
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