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An Old and Valuable Tree in North District, New Territories was removed to ensure public safety after it was found to have the risk of collapse, a spokesman for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said today (September 8).
Listed on the Register of Old and Valuable Trees (OVTs), the 11-metre-tall Paper-bark tree, registration number LCSD N/27, was located on Jockey Club Road, North District.
After the passage of the typhoon at end of July this year, the department staff inspected the tree and found that the tree trunks were split open by the strong wind. The broken parts of the trunk were removed immediately and the tree had been under close surveillance by the department , the spokesman said.
"When the department staff re-examined the tree during a detailed inspection on August 30, the tree was found in decay. Upon inspection by tomograph, a big cavity was found inside the tree. Its structure and stability were severely undermined and had a risk of collapse."
The spokesman said, "The tree was located on the side of a busy pedestrian path. To ensure public safety, we decided to remove it as soon as possible after consulting the Tree Management Office of the Development Bureau."
He added that the LCSD will continue to inspect and maintain the trees in caution and removal of any trees will be the last resort, and only when there are no other viable options.
Ends/Saturday, September 8, 2012
Issued at HKT 14:29
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