Boulevard to be among the best

DANDENONG’S Lonsdale Street will be transformed into one of Melbourne’s great new boulevards following an announcement to introduce leafy trees to the main drag.
VicUrban together with the City of Greater Dandenong last week announced that Pin Oak trees would be the new species of trees to help transform Dandenong into Victoria’s second Central Business District.
Michael King, VicUrban’s development director for revitalising central Dandenong, said design of the new boulevard meant there would be a significant increase in the number of trees planted in rows of six across from one side of Lonsdale Street to the other.
“That’s around 260 trees filling the streetscape and you can imagine how lush, green and inviting Lonsdale Street will become,” said Mr. King.
A vigorous selection process was undertaken to choose the trees, ensuring they could meet water-sensitive urban design criteria and maintenance.
Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong, Pinar Yesil, said she was pleased about the process and its outcomes.
“Lonsdale Street is familiar to change with many different species of trees being featured over the years. The Pin Oak is an extremely attractive tree and will have a positive impact on the environment,” said Cr Yesil.
A plan is in place to ensure the re-use of the existing trees.
A few smaller trees located in the Langhorne Street and Lonsdale Street area will be removed and replanted in another location.
It is anticipated the new Pin Oak trees will be planted between July and November this year.
They will be planted at already matured heights of 3.5m to 4.5m high and will grow up to 15m in height over 10 to 15 years.