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.
I guess we’ll just have to wait and see how it all turns out lolz.
Can the City explain what was wrong with the trees they removed?
The City Says:
“This Capital Project identified landscaping redevelopment and state of good repair needs for Queen’s Square in Lindsay. The landscaping redevelopment to the Square follows guiding design principals which are; accessible, safe, and comfortable to use, while also being a key contributor to community health, connectivity, liveability, and sustainability.”
The City’s justification for the Queen’s Square project ignores the current economic climate. Framing landscaping as a ‘Capital Project’ doesn’t change the fact that it’s a ‘nice-to-have’ during a time of ‘must-haves.’ When property taxes jump by 6%, seeing funds diverted to library trees instead of essential roadwork or housing initiatives feels out of touch.
We need a budget that reflects the affordability struggles of 2026, not one that prioritizes aesthetics over utility.