Tree removal all part of Queen’s Square redevelopment says city

Eleven trees in front of the Lindsay branch of the Kawartha Lakes Public Library were felled by the city earlier this week, but staff said 16 more will be planted in late June.

The tree removals and replacements are part of the Queen’s Square landscaping redevelopment project.

In an email to the Advocate, the city said the removals were driven by “state-of-good-repair requirements” identified as part of the project.

“This work supports a safer, more accessible and sustainable public space, while addressing aging or declining landscaping elements,” the city said.

In addition to the tree removals and planting, the project will include new concrete paths, as well as benches, waste bins and gardens. It also includes repairs to concrete steps, railings and column bases at the library staircase in front of the square.

On its website, the city says the project is guided by several key design principles.

“The landscaping redevelopment to the Square follows guiding design principles, including being accessible, safe and comfortable to use, while also contributing to community health, connectivity, livability and sustainability,” the website said.