Blue Mountains News

“I am so passionate about improving the image of our region, but also reducing maintenance needs across all services,” said Lithgow Council’s Mayor, Councillor Maree Statham.

“This program will commence on Mort Street, between the Lithgow Council Depot and Chifley Road,” continued Mayor Statham. “There are 26 trees in this location, which will be replaced by approximately 30 crepe myrtles. They take a narrower, vase-type shape which will virtually eliminate yearly pruning. This will allow even greater care to be taken in mowing roadsides, parks and playgrounds.”

“Most importantly though, crepe myrtles are among the world’s best flowering trees,” said Mayor Statham. “Blooming in late summer, they produce trusses of white, pink, mauve or purple flowers, before their mid-green leaves turn yellow, orange, or red in autumn. I am certain that this program will work to greatly improve the amenity of the town centres.”

Lithgow Council will be working alongside local contractors to remove and replace these trees. During this time, small plant and equipment will be carrying out the tree removal and grinding, before tree replacements occur in spring.