Review on Local Planning Policy 211 - Tree Retention

Following advertising of the proposed draft Local Planning Policy 211 - Tree Retention, the Town of Claremont has reviewed all received submissions and begun further review of the policy. 

Priding itself on its tree canopy cover, the Town is aiming to ensure the policy protects and is beneficial to the trees, with the Town currently reviewing revised model policy wording from the WA Local Government Association (WALGA). 

Together with other metropolitan local governments, the Town recently participated in WALGA's Tree Retention Model Local Planning Policy workshop. 

While the current WALGA model policy was considered fit for purpose, drafting refinements are proposed to improve clarity and support consistent implementation. The Town is considering these outcomes and the experience of other local governments as part of its review of the advertised policy. 

The tree retention policy will provide a clear framework for how the Town applies the existing vegetation protection provisions of Local Planning Scheme No. 3 when assessing development applications.

While the scheme already enables the Town to require protection of significant vegetation and refuse applications involving unnecessary removal of vegetation worth preserving, the Policy will provide greater clarity and consistency in how that discretion is exercised to protect tree canopy and local amenity. 

Officers are currently working on reviewing the endorsed policy with the proposed changes from WALGA and will be considered by Council by the September Ordinary Council Meeting. 

The Town appreciates the public's patience and continued interest in its canopy cover and tree retention policy during this time.