Work to remove a stand of trees beside Cromwell’s yet-to-be-named events centre is expected to begin today, while separate tree maintenance is under way at Lowburn Inlet after wind damage last week. 

Dozens of trees along the Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan are scheduled to be cut down.  

Members of the public were first alerted to the work when orange ‘Xs’ were spray painted on trees bordering the Lake Dunstan Trail, at a point below the new hall complex under construction on Melmore Terrace. 

An initial media statement from the Central Otago District Council about the works was issued and later withdrawn.  

However, in a Facebook post on Friday, the council said the removal was linked to “revitalising the Cromwell waterfront” and would “open up sight lines and enhance the visual and physical link between the waterfront and community facilities”. 

Days are numbered for dozens of trees marked with an orange ‘X’ below the new hall complex under construction in Cromwell. Image: The Central App

The council said landscaping would follow to create “an inviting space” in front of the new hall. 

The proposed work has drawn strong reaction online from residents concerned about the scale of the felling.  

Some questioned whether improving views from the new facility was being prioritised over preserving shade trees. 

Further up the lake at Lowburn Inlet, a different set of trees was taped off mid last week after being damaged in strong winds.  

Although the land appears to be public reserve, it is owned by Contact Energy. 

A Contact spokesperson said the company removed several dangerous branches to ensure public safety, leaving the firewood on site for people to collect. 

“We will carry out a full assessment of the trees on our property,” the spokesperson said. 

“Once we have a plan for tree removal and maintenance, we will engage with stakeholders before commencing any works.” 

While it was initially indicated some trees might need to be removed entirely, only damaged limbs have been taken at this stage.  

The trees are valued locally for the shade they provide during summer, and Contact said it will discuss any replanting requirements with the community.