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Old and Valuable Tree in Tsim Sha Tsui to be removed by LCSD
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     The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will remove an Old and Valuable Tree (OVT) at Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui near the Tsim Sha Tsui Police Station on July 13, in view of its very poor health and structural condition.

     The tree concerned is a Ficus microcarpa listed on the Register of OVTs (registration number LCSD YTM/3). 

     The tree is 13 metres tall. Its health and structural condition has been deteriorating since 2022, showing signs such as an imbalanced crown, sparse crown density and a low live-crown ratio, relatively small and chlorotic leaves, and wood decay in its trunk base and limbs. The LCSD has carried out regular inspections and maintenance of the tree, including application of fungicides, improving the soil, applying fertiliser, conducting soil aeration, crown cleaning, cabling, aerial root training and application of pesticide. Despite the implementation of various maintenance and mitigation measures, the health and structural conditions of the tree were found to be deteriorating, and it is considered irrecoverable. Considering the heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic in that part of the road, the tree removal is necessary to avoid posing a danger to pedestrians and other road users.

     Having consulted the Urban Forestry Advisory Panel through the Tree Management Office and the Yau Tsim Mong District Council on the removal proposal, and having obtained the Panel's and the Council's support, the LCSD plans to remove the tree on July 13 and replant a Ficus microcarpa at the location.

     A spokesman for the LCSD reiterated that the department will continue to adopt a prudent approach in inspecting and managing trees under its care. Removal of problematic trees will be undertaken only when no other viable risk mitigation measure is available.
 
Ends/Monday, July 8, 2024
Issued at HKT 14:15
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