Cr Rhonda Sanderson moved the motion in hopes the relocation of the powerlines would avoid the regular severe pruning of the trees in the street.
Putting the powerlines underground would cost an estimated $1.7 million to $2.2 million. The annual cost of pruning the trees is $15,000.
“Anyone who’s been through Seymour usually approaches through Tallarook St. It used to get about 600 cars per day before the COVID-19 pandemic,” Cr Sanderson said.
“They would notice the plane trees that line both sides of the road and they would notice about halfway along suddenly there is severe pruning.
“The reason for the pruning is because of electrical cables that run through the trees on one side. I am seeking a report with options available to us.”
Cr Fiona Stevens seconded the motion and said the trees looked ridiculous every time they were pruned.
“For those that live in the area, it breaks our heart every time these trees are pruned,” she said.
“It is not going to be easy, but I look forward to hearing from council officers. It’s not just above the trees that are the problem, the roots will also mean any underground cabling is an issue.”
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