CAIRNS PART B · PART B DESIGN GUIDELINES August 2014 - Cairns Regional Council 119-145 Spence Street - PO Box 359 - Cairns - QLD 4870 Ph: (07)4044 3044 F: (07)4044 3022 E: [email protected]

PART C: CBD

CAIRNSMASTER PLANTHE RAINFOREST CITY

PART BDESIGNGUIDELINES

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CAIRNSDRAFT

CAIRNS

CAIRNSMASTER PLANTHE RAINFOREST CITY

PART BDESIGNGUIDELINES

August 2014 - Cairns Regional Council119-145 Spence Street - PO Box 359 - Cairns - QLD 4870Ph: (07)4044 3044 F: (07)4044 3022 E: [email protected]

This document is available on the Cairns Regional Council website:www.cairns.qld.gov.au

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Acknowledgements Cairns: The Rainforest City Master Plan would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of a number of people and organisations. Cairns Regional Council would like to thank all contributors for their involvement, passion and valuable contributions to Cairns: The Rainforest City Master Plan.

References Queensland Streets, Complete Streets Guidelines for Urban Street Design 2011City of Cairns Street Tree & Park Planting GuideMulgrave Shire Council Landscape Code Guidelines – Industrial and Commercial 1990Trinity Inlet Visual Analysis and Design Guidelines Volumes 1 & 2 1994Marlin Coast Landscape Master Plan Part A 1999Cairns Style Guide 2011An assessment of tree susceptibility and resistance to cyclones (Yasi Report) Greening Australia 2011Native Plants for North Queensland - Yuruga Nursery 5th Edition December 1990Across the Top Gardening with Australian Plants in the Tropics Keith Townsend 1994Tropical and Sub-tropical Trees - A Worldwide Encyclopaedic Guide - Margaret Barwick 2004

The Project Team includes the following Council officers:Brett Spencer Manager Parks and LeisureHelius Visser Manager Infrastructure ManagementMalcolm Robertson Manager Inner City FacilitiesDebbie Wellington Team Leader Strategic PlanningJez Clark Senior Landscape Architect Claire Burton Landscape Architect

DRAFTAcknowledgements

DRAFTAcknowledgements Cairns: The Rainforest City Master Plan would not have been possible

DRAFTCairns: The Rainforest City Master Plan would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of a number of people and organisations.

DRAFTwithout the collaborative efforts of a number of people and organisations. Cairns Regional Council would like to thank all contributors for their

DRAFTCairns Regional Council would like to thank all contributors for their involvement, passion and valuable contributions to Cairns: The Rainforest

DRAFTinvolvement, passion and valuable contributions to Cairns: The Rainforest City Master Plan.

DRAFTCity Master Plan.

References

DRAFTReferences

DRAFTQueensland Streets, Complete Streets Guidelines for Urban Street Design

DRAFTQueensland Streets, Complete Streets Guidelines for Urban Street Design 2011DRAFT2011City of Cairns Street Tree & Park Planting GuideDRAFT

City of Cairns Street Tree & Park Planting GuideMulgrave Shire Council Landscape Code Guidelines – Industrial and DRAFT

Mulgrave Shire Council Landscape Code Guidelines – Industrial and DRAFT

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1.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................... 101.1 Context ....................................................................................................... 101.2 What are the key design elements of the Rainforest City? ....................... 16

2.0 DESIGN ELEMENTS ................................................ 202.1 Avenue planting ......................................................................................... 202.2 Grove planting ........................................................................................... 222.3 Gateways ...................................................................................................242.4 Entry Statements ....................................................................................... 302.5 Feature Planting ........................................................................................ 352.6 Public Parks ............................................................................................... 362.7 Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) .................................................... 382.8 What are the key challenges? ................................................................... 40

3.0 DESIGN GUIDELINES .............................................. 483.1 Streetscapes .............................................................................................. 493.2 Design of on-street parking ....................................................................... 513.3 Design of off-street parking ....................................................................... 533.4 Local Area Traffic Management (LATM) .................................................... 553.5 Streetscape Templates .............................................................................. 573.6 Street Trees Guidelines to placement ....................................................... 693.7 Strategies for improving planting within the road reserve ........................ 76

CONTENTSC

DRAFT1.0 INTRODUCTION

DRAFT1.0 INTRODUCTION1.1 Context

DRAFT1.1 Context .......................................................................................................

DRAFT .......................................................................................................

1.2 What are the key design elements of the Rainforest City?

DRAFT1.2 What are the key design elements of the Rainforest City?

2.0 DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFT2.0 DESIGN ELEMENTS2.1 Avenue planting

DRAFT2.1 Avenue planting2.2 Grove planting

DRAFT2.2 Grove planting

DRAFT2.3 GatewaysDRAFT2.3 Gateways2.4 Entry StatementsDRAFT

2.4 Entry Statements2.5 Feature PlantingDRAFT

2.5 Feature Planting2.6 Public ParksDRAFT

2.6 Public Parks2.7 Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD)DRAFT

2.7 Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD)

CONTENTS

DRAFTCONTENTS

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INTRODUCTION1

DRAFTINTRODUCTION

DRAFTINTRODUCTION

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1.0 INTRODUCTION1.1 ContextCairns is situated on a coastal plain bounded by the Macalister Range to the west and the Coral Sea to the east. Cairns extends approximately 52 km from north to south covering an area of some 1687 square kilometres. There is an extensive cover of wet tropical rainforest (63% of the region) on the steep slopes of the escarpment and across the broad plateau hinterland which extends from 400m to over 1600m above sea level. Most of the lowlands has been cleared of forest for agriculture and urban development.

Our urban footprint only occupies some 7% of the Cairns area and includes over 2700 streets and accommodates a population of some 154,820 people, and is the fourteenth largest city in Australia. Development is concentrated within the coastal plain between Edmonton and the Northern Beaches and it is anticipated that Cairns will see growth of up to 30% in the next few decades; with the majority of urban expansion planned within the southern corridor concentrated around the Mount Peter area, to the south of the current city limits.

To the north of Cairns development has followed the topographical constraints of the Barron River flood plain and delta, and the Macalister and Whitfield Ranges. This has resulted in small isolated settlements strung out along the available foreshore from Machans Beach to Palm Cove. To the south settlement has spread from the original township of Cairns, established at the mouth of the Trinity Inlet and gradually filled in the remaining coastal plain to encompass Edmonton, leaving the historic rural settlements of Gordonvale, Babinda and Mirriwinni as satellite towns set within this predominantly agricultural landscape.

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CAIRNS • THE RAINFOREST CITY • MASTER PLAN• THE RAINFOREST CITY • MASTER PLAN• THE RAINFOREST CITY • MASTER PLAN

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DRAFTINTRODUCTION

DRAFTINTRODUCTION

Cairns is situated on a coastal plain bounded by the Macalister Range to the west and the Coral Sea to

DRAFTCairns is situated on a coastal plain bounded by the Macalister Range to the west and the Coral Sea to the east. Cairns extends approximately 52 km from north to south covering an area of some 1687 square DRAFTthe east. Cairns extends approximately 52 km from north to south covering an area of some 1687 square kilometres. There is an extensive cover of wet tropical rainforest (63% of the region) on the steep slopes of the DRAFT

kilometres. There is an extensive cover of wet tropical rainforest (63% of the region) on the steep slopes of the escarpment and across the broad plateau hinterland which extends from 400m to over 1600m above sea level. DRAFT

escarpment and across the broad plateau hinterland which extends from 400m to over 1600m above sea level.

Cairns Regional Council BoundaryThe Rainforest City Area

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1.1.1 Cairns City and inner suburbs (local centres)The settlement of Cairns was founded in 1876 to the west of the inlet, hastened by the need to export gold discovered on the tablelands. The site was predominantly mangrove swamps and sand ridges. The swamps were gradually cleared by labourers, and the sand ridges were filled in with dried mud, sawdust from local sawmills, and ballast from a quarry at Edge Hill.

A grid of wide city streets developed following the dunal ridges which ran parallel to the bay. These stretch out across the coastal plain connecting the city’s inner suburbs. The older suburbs are typified by wide roads with unsealed shoulders laid to turf, with rows of traditional Queenslander homes laid out along the neat grid of city streets.

Street trees are restricted to footpaths and front gardens which tend to be more established in these areas. Power lines inhibit widespread avenue planting and trees have been established where space allows, creating a more random and relaxed planting style. Street trees in these areas still reflect the planting trends of the previous century; large flowering species tend to dominate as in the Tabebuias in Earlville and the Poincianas and Cassias in North Cairns.

The shoulder was traditionally turfed but in recent years with increased car ownership many of these grassed areas have become subject to increased parking. Subsequent erosion leads to loss of amenity and creates dust during the dry months.

Road shoulder widths generally range between 2 to 5 metres. For the purposes of tree planting Council road shoulders can currently be divided into three categories:

• Bitumen only (trees are isolated in hard surfacing)• Bitumen with tree islands (trees are planted in tree islands)• Grass and crushed stone only (dominant in older established suburbs)

The City Centre area with its mix of 20th century civic architecture and high rise buildings can create harsh conditions for street trees due to excessive overshadowing, radiant heat from pavements, and high levels of pollution from vehicle emissions. In most streets building awnings and other overhead structures prevent or limit tree planting. A series of mature figs dominate the street tree character and contribute to the “tropical feel” of the city centre.

Pavement only – restricted to CBD and other commercial areasIn footways that are paved from building line to kerb the tree hole has traditionally been cut immediately behind the kerb, allowing the area closer to the building line for underground services.

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INTRODUCTION

DRAFTThe shoulder was traditionally turfed but in recent years with increased

DRAFTThe shoulder was traditionally turfed but in recent years with increased car ownership many of these grassed areas have become subject to

DRAFTcar ownership many of these grassed areas have become subject to increased parking. Subsequent erosion leads to loss of amenity and

DRAFTincreased parking. Subsequent erosion leads to loss of amenity and creates dust during the dry months.

DRAFTcreates dust during the dry months.

Road shoulder widths generally range between 2 to 5 metres. For

DRAFTRoad shoulder widths generally range between 2 to 5 metres. For the purposes of tree planting Council road shoulders can currently be

DRAFTthe purposes of tree planting Council road shoulders can currently be divided into three categories:

DRAFTdivided into three categories:

Bitumen only (trees are isolated in hard surfacing)

DRAFTBitumen only (trees are isolated in hard surfacing)

•

DRAFT• Bitumen with tree islands (trees are planted in tree islands)

DRAFTBitumen with tree islands (trees are planted in tree islands)

• DRAFT• Grass and crushed stone only (dominant in older established suburbs) DRAFT

Grass and crushed stone only (dominant in older established suburbs)

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1.1.2 Residential areas

Planting in the vergeFor the purposes of tree planting Council verges can be divided into four categories:

• Wide Footpath with grass strip (2 metre concrete footpath typical).• Narrow Footpath with grass strip (1.2-1.5 metre footpath typical).• Grass only (dominant on local streets).

Wide Footpath with grass strip – 2.0 metre concrete footpath typicalGenerally this width of path is used on 4.5 metre verges and results in a planting strip of no more than 1.6 metres. In some cases where the verge width is less than 4.5 metres the planting strip, that is to say the area made available for the planting of street trees is reduced to as little as 1metre (or even less in severe cases). This is not sufficient for the planting of street trees.

Narrow footpath with grass strip – 1.2 -1.5 metre footpaths typical

The narrower footpaths are usually found in the older areas of Cairns, the planting strips here tend to be wider and better suited to the planting of street trees.

Grassed footways – access streets and cul-de-sacsThis treatment is most often seen on access streets and cul-de-sacs. Traffic volumes allow pedestrians to share roads and front gardens to dominate the streetscape and provide what is termed a borrowed landscape, which contributes greatly to the appearance of the street.

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INTRODUCTION

DRAFTThis treatment is most often seen on access streets and cul-de-sacs. Traffic volumes allow pedestrians to share

DRAFTThis treatment is most often seen on access streets and cul-de-sacs. Traffic volumes allow pedestrians to share roads and front gardens to dominate the streetscape and provide what is termed a borrowed landscape, which

DRAFTroads and front gardens to dominate the streetscape and provide what is termed a borrowed landscape, which

1.2 What are the key design elements of the Rainforest City?

Two distinct tree planting strategies have been developed by the Cairns Regional Council to guide the provision of trees for our city streets. These strategies establish an approach to our city streets which both reflects the road hierarchy and will establish our streets as green corridors, reflecting our surrounding natural environment and creating liveable streets for our communities to enjoy;

• Avenue Planting• Grove Planting

In addition to the main themes above the council acknowledges the following Special Planting themes;

• Reinforce and celebrate Gateways within the City of Cairns• Provide entry statements at key arrival points across the city• Special area feature planting• Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD)

Avenue Planting has been designed to compliment the network of higher order roads which provide the major transport corridors through our region (for full listings of specific Avenue Planting themes refer to Part D Cairns Precincts).

Some streets have been designed to have a mixture of species. This may be in the form of one side of the street being a smaller species to fit under overhead wires and a larger species on the other side where absence of services and verge space permit.

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DRAFT

DRAFT has been designed to compliment the network of higher

DRAFT has been designed to compliment the network of higher

order roads which provide the major transport corridors through our region

DRAFTorder roads which provide the major transport corridors through our region (for full listings of specific Avenue Planting themes refer to Part D Cairns

DRAFT(for full listings of specific Avenue Planting themes refer to Part D Cairns

Some streets have been designed to have a mixture of species. This

DRAFTSome streets have been designed to have a mixture of species. This may be in the form of one side of the street being a smaller species to

DRAFTmay be in the form of one side of the street being a smaller species to fit under overhead wires and a larger species on the other side where

DRAFTfit under overhead wires and a larger species on the other side where absence of services and verge space permit.

DRAFTabsence of services and verge space permit.

Some streets are also shown as an alternating mix of species. These are usually designed to cater for the continuation of pre-existing street conditions and importantly to balance the provision of native and exotic trees and deciduous and evergreen trees.

Attempts will be made to alternate the two (or more) species to provide for the designed intention of the mixed street.

With such a large number of smaller local streets the Master Plan has adopted a less formal approach to the provision of street trees.

Mixed species street planting In our older suburbs streets are typified by a more diverse mix of species as a result of;

• Historically more relaxed planning regulations • Restrictions caused by power lines• The removal of trees because of changes to

infrastructure• Vandalism• Natural tree failure caused by cyclones and storm

damage• Natural tree failure through disease and pests

This more relaxed style has become a defining characteristic of many of our city streets.

Grove Planting as a strategy will provide a more natural, relaxed tree planting style for our local street network; one that will blend more readily with our natural environment and allow greater flexibility when planting and selecting trees (refer to Strategies for our city streets – Grove Planting for further details refer to pages 36-37).

This reflects the diversity of trees which can typify our urban streets, and while single species plantings have become the norm for new developments many of our older more established streets exhibit a more diverse range of species. This aids biodiversity and makes our tree communities more resilient because of the diversity of species present.

‘The aim of these planting themes is to establish “green city corridors” by providing formal avenues of shade trees across the city’s key transport network, and an urban forest creating a dense widespread growth of trees covering our city area’.

17

INTRODUCTION

DRAFTNatural tree failure through disease and pests

DRAFTNatural tree failure through disease and pests

This more relaxed style has become a defining

DRAFTThis more relaxed style has become a defining characteristic of many of our city streets.

DRAFTcharacteristic of many of our city streets.

as a strategy will provide a more DRAFT

as a strategy will provide a more natural, relaxed tree planting style for our local street DRAFT

natural, relaxed tree planting style for our local street

widespread growth of

DRAFTwidespread growth of trees covering our city

DRAFTtrees covering our city area’.

DRAFTarea’.

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DESIGNELEMENTS

2

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Sketch of Avenue Planting

2.1 Avenue plantingAvenue planting is designed for our major transport network system, and will define the character of our key streets. For the purposes of this document Avenue planting has been divided into two categories;

• Formal Avenue• Alternate Avenue

2.0 DESIGN ELEMENTS

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“Avenues provide a consistent canopy and distinctive urban feature which articulates the road network hierarchy and key city gateways”.

Sketch of Alternative Avenue Planting

Formal Avenue planting is for areas where a consistent line of trees of the same species and scale is preferred. Simple plantings typically of a single species are repeated at regular intervals along the length of the street to provide a consistent canopy and urban feature which articulates the road network hierarchy and key city gateways.

Where to use Avenues• Arterial, Sub-Arterial Roads and Major Collectors.• Within urban areas and as urban approaches. • Desirable for Key City Gateways • May require funded programme of under grounding of power lines to

achieve the full symmetry of the Avenue.• Most easily achieved within new subdivisions where services are

located underground.

Alternative Avenue planting is for areas where Formal Avenue Planting is limited to one side of the street due to local constraints such as power lines or other services or infrastructure, and where under grounding of power lines is not viable or costs are prohibitive.

Where to use Alternate Avenues• Arterial, Sub-Arterial Roads, Collectors.• Alternative to under grounding power lines.• Not desirable for Key City Gateways.

Note: Avenues typically include Median and Shoulder Plantings and include our city gateways. (for full listings of specific Avenue Planting themes refer to Part D Cairns Precincts).

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DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFTMost easily achieved within new subdivisions where services are

DRAFTMost easily achieved within new subdivisions where services are

Alternative Avenue planting is for areas where Formal Avenue Planting

DRAFTAlternative Avenue planting is for areas where Formal Avenue Planting is limited to one side of the street due to local constraints such as power

DRAFTis limited to one side of the street due to local constraints such as power lines or other services or infrastructure, and where under grounding of

DRAFTlines or other services or infrastructure, and where under grounding of power lines is not viable or costs are prohibitive.

DRAFTpower lines is not viable or costs are prohibitive.

Arterial, Sub-Arterial Roads, Collectors.

DRAFTArterial, Sub-Arterial Roads, Collectors.Alternative to under grounding power lines.

DRAFTAlternative to under grounding power lines.Not desirable for Key City Gateways. DRAFTNot desirable for Key City Gateways.

Sketch of Grove Planting

2.2 Grove plantingThe key aim of grove planting is to create an urban forest which compliments our natural areas and provides a more naturalistic approach to street tree planting. Grove planting will see our local streets planted with a mix of native trees that will increase biodiversity in our city area; replacing the single species approach traditionally used to provide trees for our city’s smaller residential streets.

“Foresting the suburbs provides cumulative benefits for ensuring healthy communities - in particular they offer the opportunity to be the ‘green lungs’ of the city”.

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Grove planting has the following benefits;• Allows tree planting to be more adaptive to local

constraints with greater flexibility in the selection and replacement of street trees

• Allows greater flexibility for local residents who wish to plant a tree to the front of their property

• Increases local biodiversity and enriches the habitat for our native fauna.

• Provides a more natural appearance • Facilitates the replacement of trees lost to cyclone

damage. (The amenity of formal plantings of single species are readily disrupted by tree loss)

• Provides residents with a clear framework for enhancing neighbourhoods with appropriate street trees

• Local areas can develop specific species palettes which compliment neighbouring natural vegetation communities

• Reduces demands on the local nursery industry and is more readily adaptive to local supply

• Reduces the risk of tree infection and widespread tree failure across streetscapes

Where to use:• Local Collectors and residential streets (cul-de-

sacs).• Within semi-urban and urban fringe areas, adjacent

to natural vegetation and open spaces such as parks and creeks.

• In association with hill slope protection to provide a more natural screen to development.

• In association with wildlife corridors and buffer planting adjacent to areas of remnant natural vegetation.

• To provide visual and physical links to surrounding areas of natural vegetation

• To provide buffers to protect and enhance areas of indigenous vegetation and corridors to link existing areas of indigenous vegetation or public open space

• To allow the borrowed landscape to take precedence around existing parks and open space

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DESIGN ELEMENTS

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DRAFTReduces demands on the local nursery industry

DRAFTReduces demands on the local nursery industry

Reduces the risk of tree infection and widespread

DRAFTReduces the risk of tree infection and widespread

areas of natural vegetation

DRAFTareas of natural vegetationTo provide buffers to protect and enhance areas of

DRAFTTo provide buffers to protect and enhance areas of indigenous vegetation and corridors to link existing

DRAFTindigenous vegetation and corridors to link existing areas of indigenous vegetation or public open

DRAFTareas of indigenous vegetation or public open space

DRAFTspace•

DRAFT• To allow the borrowed landscape to take

DRAFTTo allow the borrowed landscape to take precedence around existing parks and open space

DRAFTprecedence around existing parks and open space

2.3 GatewaysWhy this is importantGateways provide a city wide network of street plantings to welcome visitors and improve the amenity of key roads within the transport network system.

These network roads form the key corridors of movement through our region and are considered as separate in character to the precincts and suburbs they divide or bound. Gateways will be strengthened with consistent Avenues of unified trees and planting schemes. The installation of ample median strips will create opportunities to provide street wide stands of trees, with more complex relationships being possible between species and allowing for under-planting, as demonstrated by the Gateway Project. The central portion of the road is often the most appropriate for major tree planting and has historic precedence in Cairns in Streets such as Shields Street, which now forms part of the City Place.

Gateways templates arterial/sub-arterial roads only. Refer to Appendix A for a full list of City Gateways and Streetscape Templates based on current Transport Network Plan

Design principles • A consistent treatment of large canopy shade median trees and

understorey planting is generally applied to all gateways• Gateway median planting should consist of mass plantings or simple

turf• Gateways only occur on the arterial/sub-arterial road network and

major collectors• Gateway treatments should be sympathetic to their natural

surroundings• Gateways may include WSUD treatments as feature of landscape

themes• Gateways should acknowledge and compliment areas of remnant

vegetation through which they pass

Gateways provide a city wide network of street plantings to welcome visitors and improve the amenity of those key corridors of movement through our region…

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DRAFTbeing possible between species and allowing for under-planting, as

DRAFTbeing possible between species and allowing for under-planting, as demonstrated by the Gateway Project. The central portion of the road

DRAFTdemonstrated by the Gateway Project. The central portion of the road is often the most appropriate for major tree planting and has historic

DRAFTis often the most appropriate for major tree planting and has historic precedence in Cairns in Streets such as Shields Street, which now forms

DRAFTprecedence in Cairns in Streets such as Shields Street, which now forms part of the City Place.

DRAFTpart of the City Place.

Gateways templates arterial/sub-arterial roads only. Refer to Appendix

DRAFTGateways templates arterial/sub-arterial roads only. Refer to Appendix A for a full list of City Gateways and Streetscape Templates based on

DRAFTA for a full list of City Gateways and Streetscape Templates based on current Transport Network Plan

DRAFTcurrent Transport Network Plan

Design principles

DRAFTDesign principles

A consistent treatment of large canopy shade median trees and

DRAFTA consistent treatment of large canopy shade median trees and understorey planting is generally applied to all gatewaysDRAFTunderstorey planting is generally applied to all gatewaysGateway median planting should consist of mass plantings or simple DRAFT

Gateway median planting should consist of mass plantings or simple turfDRAFT

turf

Cairns Regional Council BoundaryMajor Gateway RouteMinor Gateway Route

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2.3.1 Key Cairns City GatewaysThe purpose of the key city gateways is to provide a scenic link between the northern and southern approaches to the city of Cairns, and provide a formal landscaped approach to the city centre. The Gateways form part of our region’s main state controlled highway and mark the transition from the Bruce Highway to the Captain Cook Highway as it proceeds north through Cairns.

Key City Gateways are• Sheridan Street (Captain Cook Highway)• Mulgrave Road (Bruce Highway)

While Sheridan Street links to the Cairn International Airport and the northern approach to the city; the Mulgrave Road should be seen in the context of the ‘Great Green Way’ which is the main tourist drive to Far Northern Queensland and the only approach to the city from the south.

The Gateways have been incorporated into recent highway upgrades and are the result of continuing collaboration with the Department of Transport and Main Roads. The Gateways have developed in response to the current road safety standards and landscaping has ben concentrated within the medians and islands which form part of the road

infrastructure. Simple mass planting of native and exotic tropical plants have been used to both soften this major highway and reinforce the geometry of it’s many intersections and medians.

The Gateways rely on lush plantings and formalised hedges to create vibrant contrasts in colour and texture; the use of trees is limited as a feature of highway planting because of current road safety standards.

Design principles • Mass plantings of mixed tropical shrubs, bulbs

and grasses with feature trees located within the median and islands

• Planting should be simple and in bold patterns, maximising contrasts in colour and texture

• The placement of feature trees must be in accordance with current main roads standards

• Landscaping is subject to approval by Department of Transport and Main Roads

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DRAFTFar Northern Queensland and the only approach to

DRAFTFar Northern Queensland and the only approach to

The Gateways have been incorporated into recent

DRAFTThe Gateways have been incorporated into recent highway upgrades and are the result of continuing

DRAFThighway upgrades and are the result of continuing collaboration with the Department of Transport DRAFTcollaboration with the Department of Transport and Main Roads. The Gateways have developed DRAFT

and Main Roads. The Gateways have developed in response to the current road safety standards DRAFT

in response to the current road safety standards

Mass plantings of mixed tropical shrubs, bulbs

DRAFTMass plantings of mixed tropical shrubs, bulbs and grasses with feature trees located within the

DRAFTand grasses with feature trees located within the median and islands

DRAFTmedian and islandsPlanting should be simple and in bold patterns,

DRAFTPlanting should be simple and in bold patterns, maximising contrasts in colour and texture

DRAFTmaximising contrasts in colour and texture•

DRAFT• The placement of feature trees must be in

DRAFTThe placement of feature trees must be in accordance with current main roads standards

DRAFTaccordance with current main roads standards

•

DRAFT• Landscaping is subject to approval by Department

DRAFTLandscaping is subject to approval by Department of Transport and Main Roads

DRAFTof Transport and Main Roads

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DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFT

Typical cross section of a gateway

2.3.2 Gateways (General)General Gateways celebrate our key local transport corridors. (Refer to Part D Precinct Plans summary sheets for details of Gateways).

Gateways will vary across the region depending on local conditions and the surrounding environment. Extensive landscaping incorporating avenues of large shade trees and flowering shrubs and plants are a key aspect of these features.

Design principles • A consistent treatment of large canopy shade median trees and

understorey planting is generally applied to all gateways• Gateway median planting should consist of mass plantings and/or

simple turf• Gateway treatments should be sympathetic to their natural

surroundings and respond to natural features and local native vegetation communities where these occur in proximity to the road corridor

• Gateways may include WSUD treatments as feature of landscape themes

“...gateways may include WSUD treatments as feature of landscape themes.”

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DRAFT

DRAFTGateway median planting should consist of mass plantings and/or

DRAFTGateway median planting should consist of mass plantings and/or

Gateway treatments should be sympathetic to their natural

DRAFTGateway treatments should be sympathetic to their natural surroundings and respond to natural features and local native

DRAFTsurroundings and respond to natural features and local native vegetation communities where these occur in proximity to the road

DRAFTvegetation communities where these occur in proximity to the road

Gateways may include WSUD treatments as feature of landscape

DRAFTGateways may include WSUD treatments as feature of landscape

Response to common issue:

Planting will interfere with road safetyPlanting design throughout the city will need to have regard to Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. For this reason gateway planting will utilise groundcover species where sight lines need to be maintained. Designers should refer to www.mainroads.qld.gov.au and follow the links to the Road Planning Design Manual for full details of sight lines and clearances for roads.

Services and power lines restrict large scale avenue plantingWhere the planting of street trees is prohibited by services, such as overhead power lines plantings of trees suitable for heavy shaping or low hedging along the nature strip may be a preferred landscape option.

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DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFT

DRAFToverhead power lines plantings of trees suitable for heavy shaping or low

DRAFToverhead power lines plantings of trees suitable for heavy shaping or low hedging along the nature strip may be a preferred landscape option.

DRAFThedging along the nature strip may be a preferred landscape option.

Artist’s impression of Cairns Regional Council’s Regional Entry Statement at Mirriwinni

Artist’s impression of Cairns Regional Council’s Regional Entry Statement at Smithfield

2.4 Entry Statements

2.4.1 Council Entry Statements Why this is importantAs a major tourist destination located as a gateway to two world heritage areas, the Cairns Regional Council has established an entry statement strategy that will clearly articulate the main points of arrival to both the Cairns Region and those key towns and areas of interest within the council area. These entry statements delineate public areas, facilities and designated precincts such as the entrances to the Cairns Region.

Design principles • Provision of entry statements will not be limited to landscape features

and will include signage to give a sense of arrival and “Welcome” to the Cairns Region as part of broader visitor experience.

• Entry Statements should; » Foster a sense of local pride/ownership » Acknowledge the distinctive Region and it's parts » Acknowledge the CRC corporate identity and CRC brand » Be consistent with the current corporate plan with emphasis on sustainability

» Demonstrate Cairns as the "Greenest Region in Australia"

Note: Council Entry Statements need to comply with the guidance on design and siting issues set out on pages 38-39.

“…entry statements give a sense of arrival and ‘welcome’ to our region and its’ key features as part of the broader visitor experience”.

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DRAFTProvision of entry statements will not be limited to landscape features

DRAFTProvision of entry statements will not be limited to landscape features and will include signage to give a sense of arrival and “Welcome” to

DRAFTand will include signage to give a sense of arrival and “Welcome” to the Cairns Region as part of broader visitor experience.

DRAFTthe Cairns Region as part of broader visitor experience.Entry Statements should;

DRAFTEntry Statements should;Foster a sense of local pride/ownership

DRAFTFoster a sense of local pride/ownershipAcknowledge the distinctive Region and it's parts

DRAFTAcknowledge the distinctive Region and it's partsAcknowledge the CRC corporate identity and CRC brand

DRAFTAcknowledge the CRC corporate identity and CRC brandBe consistent with the current corporate plan with emphasis on

DRAFTBe consistent with the current corporate plan with emphasis on sustainability

DRAFTsustainabilityDemonstrate Cairns as the "Greenest Region in Australia"

DRAFTDemonstrate Cairns as the "Greenest Region in Australia"

Note: Council Entry Statements need to comply with the guidance on DRAFTNote: Council Entry Statements need to comply with the guidance on design and siting issues set out on pages 38-39.DRAFT

design and siting issues set out on pages 38-39.

Example of Community Beach Entry Statement at Yorkeys Knob (above) and Tourist Beach Entry Statement at Trinity Beach (right).

1. Regional Entry • Airport Avenue (key tourist entry)• Mirriwinni (Bruce Highway)• Smithfield (base of Kennedy Highway)• Mossman 2. Regional Centre • Cairns City

» Mulgrave Road Gateway (Bruce Highway) » Sheridan Street Gateway (Captain Cook Highway)

3. Local Centre • Edmonton• Smithfield

4. Historic Centre • Gordonvale• Mossman5. Special Area• Crystal Cascades• Fishery Falls• The Boulders6. Sub-urban Centre• Northern Beaches

» Tourist Beaches - Palm Cove, Trinity Beach » Community Beaches - Clifton, Kewarra ,Yorkeys Knob,Holloways and Machans

» Natural Beach - Ellis and Trinity Park• Key suburbs


How do entry statements differ from gateways?An entry statement is a feature which marks a single point of arrival; while a gateway is seen as a lineal element which marks the key corridors of movement through our region.

2.4.2 What is the hierarchy of Council Entry Statements?

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DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFTMulgrave Road Gateway (Bruce Highway)

DRAFTMulgrave Road Gateway (Bruce Highway)Sheridan Street Gateway (Captain Cook

DRAFTSheridan Street Gateway (Captain Cook

Historic Centre

DRAFTHistoric Centre Gordonvale

DRAFTGordonvaleMossman

DRAFTMossman5.

DRAFT5. Special Area

DRAFTSpecial Area•

DRAFT• Crystal Cascades

DRAFTCrystal Cascades•

DRAFT• Fishery Falls

DRAFTFishery Falls

•

DRAFT• The Boulders

DRAFTThe Boulders

6.

DRAFT6. Sub-urban Centre

DRAFTSub-urban Centre

2.4.3 Local Entry StatementsWhy this is importantAn Entry Statement is an optional element of landscape work. Entry Statements mark and define the entry to a property, including individual developments, resorts, residential estates or precincts. They are most commonly used as a promotional tool in the marketing of new residential estates. Entry Statements can enhance the character of streetscapes and improve legibility and orientation within the City.

At a local level entry statements have been traditionally used to accentuate new developments and sub divisions. These vary in scale and form but typically include an entry sign with feature planting. Entry Statements can be constructed simply, using vegetation and pavement. More elaborate forms may also include either one or a combination of fences, walls, gates, special night and effects lighting and artworks.

32


DRAFT

DRAFTAt a local level entry statements have been

DRAFTAt a local level entry statements have been traditionally used to accentuate new developments

DRAFTtraditionally used to accentuate new developments and sub divisions. These vary in scale and form but

DRAFTand sub divisions. These vary in scale and form but typically include an entry sign with feature planting.

DRAFTtypically include an entry sign with feature planting. Entry Statements can be constructed simply, using

DRAFTEntry Statements can be constructed simply, using vegetation and pavement. More elaborate forms may

DRAFTvegetation and pavement. More elaborate forms may also include either one or a combination of fences,

DRAFTalso include either one or a combination of fences, walls, gates, special night and effects lighting and

DRAFTwalls, gates, special night and effects lighting and artworks.

DRAFTartworks.

Design principles • Provision of local entry statements are not limited

to landscape features and can include signage to give a sense of arrival and “Welcome” as part of broader visitor experience.

• Entry Statements should foster a sense of local pride/ownership

• Should acknowledge the distinctive Region and it's parts and make use of our native plant species

• Demonstrate Cairns as the "Greenest Region in Australia"

• Entry Statements and signage should not present a safety risk to road users, must comply with CPTED principles and sight lines and clear zones.

• All landscape and signage designs will need to seek approval from the DTMR when located within a State Controlled Road; all other areas must apply to the Cairns Regional Council

• On State Controlled Roads Entry Statements need to comply with the FNQROC Development Manual D9.08 Buffer Zones (refer to Standard Drawing S4230 for details of extents of entry statements within buffer zones)

• The style, scale, colour and form of the Entry Statement should complement the design of the development to which it relates.

• The design and materials used in the construction of an Entry Statement should be practical and durable and minimise opportunities for graffiti and vandalism.

• Entry Statements are designed to provide access for repair, maintenance and any necessary extensions to public infrastructure.

• To ensure that any components of Entry Statements within road reserves are designed to be low maintenance to reduce long term maintenance costs to Council.


How large can an entry statement be?The extent of entry statements is limited by the FNQROC Development Manual D9. Developers should refer to the standard drawing S4230 for full details of guidelines.

What are the landscape values of local entry statements?Cairns Regional Council aims to be the greenest region in Australian and sees the promotion of our native tropical plant species as a key feature of our regional identity. We encourage developers to make use of our local rainforest species, which typify and reinforce the region’s image and suggest that these “iconic” species be used in more formal mass plantings to express and distinguish entry statements from general landscaping or associated buffer mound plantings.

33

DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFTOn State Controlled Roads Entry Statements need

DRAFTOn State Controlled Roads Entry Statements need to comply with the FNQROC Development Manual

DRAFTto comply with the FNQROC Development Manual D9.08 Buffer Zones (refer to Standard Drawing

DRAFTD9.08 Buffer Zones (refer to Standard Drawing S4230 for details of extents of entry statements

DRAFTS4230 for details of extents of entry statements

The style, scale, colour and form of the Entry

DRAFTThe style, scale, colour and form of the Entry Statement should complement the design of the DRAFTStatement should complement the design of the

The design and materials used in the construction DRAFT

The design and materials used in the construction

FNQROC Development Manual D9. Developers

DRAFTFNQROC Development Manual D9. Developers should refer to the standard drawing S4230 for full

DRAFTshould refer to the standard drawing S4230 for full details of guidelines.

DRAFTdetails of guidelines.

What are the landscape values of local entry

DRAFTWhat are the landscape values of local entry statements?

DRAFTstatements?Cairns Regional Council aims to be the greenest

DRAFTCairns Regional Council aims to be the greenest region in Australian and sees the promotion of our

DRAFTregion in Australian and sees the promotion of our native tropical plant species as a key feature of our

DRAFTnative tropical plant species as a key feature of our regional identity. We encourage developers to make

DRAFTregional identity. We encourage developers to make

34


DRAFT

2.5 Feature PlantingFeature planting is intended to be used to enhance the following;

• Heritage sites/features• Commercial and cultural facilities

Response to common issues:What form should feature planting take?Feature planting can take many forms and will vary according to the feature and it’s location. Formal plantings incorporating hedges can compliment architectural forms and help articulate associated open space.

2.5.1 Heritage sites and featuresIf appropriate, street tree planting can be sympathetic to the heritage values of the built environment to further strengthen a sense of place for these areas; reinforcing heritage associated street tree plantings where these are culturally significant.

Where to use:• Trees should frame and not obscure Historic Sites and

Buildings, • Trees should frame and enhance entrances and particular view

corridors • Heritage associations extend beyond settled forms to include

traditional Indigenous land use and culture.

2.5.2 Commercial and cultural facilitiesFeature planting can be utilised where trees of special character are preferred, clearly distinguishable from the character of General Planting to accentuate key commercial and cultural facilities.

Where to use:• At key cultural sites• At community centres and large community facilities• Extent is to be limited in order to maintain maximum effect and

to not detract from general Avenue or Grove Planting to;• Frame entrances• Mark approaches • Key commercial strips can be enhanced and distinguished

through special Tree Planting.

“Feature planting highlights key historic, cultural and commercial features within the landscape…”

35

DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFTheritage values of the built environment to further strengthen a

DRAFTheritage values of the built environment to further strengthen a sense of place for these areas; reinforcing heritage associated

DRAFTsense of place for these areas; reinforcing heritage associated street tree plantings where these are culturally significant.

DRAFTstreet tree plantings where these are culturally significant.

Trees should frame and not obscure Historic Sites and

DRAFTTrees should frame and not obscure Historic Sites and

Trees should frame and enhance entrances and particular view

DRAFTTrees should frame and enhance entrances and particular view

Heritage associations extend beyond settled forms to include DRAFTHeritage associations extend beyond settled forms to include traditional Indigenous land use and culture.DRAFT

traditional Indigenous land use and culture.

2.6 Public Parks

Why this is importantCurrently our parks and public open spaces account for 5.7% of the rainforest city area. Parks and Public open spaces can make a useful contribution to our regional biodiversity through the use of endemic species encouraging wildlife and providing a valuable source of nectar for our native birds. They help make links to the natural world and provide a respite from our urban environment. They can provide buffers to remnant natural vegetation communities and provide wildlife corridors. Local parks and streets can work together to link these networks and create larger “green corridors” through our urban areas.

Parks improve our physical and psychological health, strengthen our communities and make our cities and neighbourhoods more attractive places to live and work. Access to parks often results in more exercise, and leads to social encounters and interaction.

Numerous studies have shown that parks and open space increase the value of neighbouring residential property, and growing evidence points to a similar benefit on commercial property value.

“The “new view” of urban parks calls attention to the broader contributions they can make to the vitality of communities and their residents.”

The availability of park and recreation facilities is an important quality-of-life factor for corporations choosing where to locate facilities and for individuals choosing a place to live.

The network of public open spaces can be readily adapted by future generations to suit the growing demands of urban life. Parks can be transformed into adventure play areas, nature reserves, bioretention basins and allotments to suit the changing patterns of urban habitation.

36


DRAFTwildlife corridors. Local parks and streets

DRAFTwildlife corridors. Local parks and streets can work together to link these networks

DRAFTcan work together to link these networks and create larger “green corridors”

DRAFTand create larger “green corridors”

Parks improve our physical and

DRAFTParks improve our physical and psychological health, strengthen our

DRAFTpsychological health, strengthen our communities and make our cities and

DRAFTcommunities and make our cities and neighbourhoods more attractive places

DRAFTneighbourhoods more attractive places to live and work. Access to parks often DRAFTto live and work. Access to parks often results in more exercise, and leads to DRAFT

results in more exercise, and leads to social encounters and interaction. DRAFT

social encounters and interaction.

communities and

DRAFTcommunities and their residents.”

DRAFTtheir residents.”

“Parks improve our physical and psychological health, strengthen our communities and make our cities and neighbourhoods more attractive places to live and work.”

Design guidelines;• Council parks seek to provide a range of recreation

opportunities and there is scope to utilise planting design to help achieve this objective, options include: » Shade trees evenly planted throughout the site to maximise protection from the sun;

» Island or corridor planting to concentrate trees for easy maintenance and encourage bird life for pleasure viewing;

» Grouped planting will also provide shade adjacent to open space to allow unencumbered active play areas;

» Lines of tree planting to define edges of informal kick-about areas.

• A minimum 75% of the proposed tree planting should be endemic, and species should be selected on their adaptability to site conditions, and their value to local fauna. Where the proposed park adjoins an area of established native vegetation, an extension of this habitat into the park should be implemented by using compatible species. The designer should also be encouraged to use rare and endangered plant species, or species proven to have excellent bird, butterfly and insect attracting qualities.

• In order to promote the unique landscape characteristics of the region exotic flowering trees and non-native palms should only be used as features or emphasis, where necessary.

• Street trees should not be a plant listed in: • Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route

Management) Regulation 2003 Local governments Pest Management Plan or the Publication “Agricultural and Environmental Weeds – Far North Queensland” (Wet Tropics Management Authority, Department of Natural Resources and Mines)

• Local Law No: 3 and 4

37

DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFTphysical and psychological

DRAFTphysical and psychological health, strengthen our

DRAFThealth, strengthen our communities and make our DRAFTcommunities and make our cities and neighbourhoods DRAFT

cities and neighbourhoods

characteristics of the region exotic flowering trees

DRAFTcharacteristics of the region exotic flowering trees and non-native palms should only be used as

DRAFTand non-native palms should only be used as features or emphasis, where necessary.

DRAFTfeatures or emphasis, where necessary. Street trees should not be a plant listed in:

DRAFTStreet trees should not be a plant listed in: •

DRAFT• Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route

DRAFTLand Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Regulation 2003 Local governments

DRAFTManagement) Regulation 2003 Local governments Pest Management Plan or the

DRAFTPest Management Plan or the “Agricultural and Environmental Weeds – Far North

DRAFT“Agricultural and Environmental Weeds – Far North Queensland” (Wet Tropics Management Authority,

DRAFTQueensland” (Wet Tropics Management Authority,

Indicative cross section of road incorporating WSUD treatments

Examples of parking incorporating WSUD treatments

2.7 Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD)Why this is important Streets account for a significant percentage of the impervious area of our built environments, causing increased storm water flows. They are also the source of a number of water borne pollutants such as sediments, metals and hydrocarbons that adversely affect the health of receiving waters. To preserve the health and vitality of our waterways and the Great Barrier Reef it is essential that we reduce the dispersal of these pollutants and protect our seas. WSUD elements can be integrated into open space and streetscapes to collect and treat runoff prior to discharge and can become interesting landscape features which integrate well with local vegetation communities.

“preserve the health and vitality of our waterways and the Great Barrier Reef”

38


DRAFT“preserve the

DRAFT“preserve the health and

DRAFThealth and vitality of our

DRAFTvitality of our waterways and

DRAFTwaterways and the Great Barrier

DRAFTthe Great Barrier Reef”DRAFT

Reef”

Example of overland drainage system incorporating WSUD treatments

Example of median incorporating WSUD treatments

Design guidelines• Use storm water treatment elements in the urban

landscape to maximise the visual and recreational amenity of future works.

• Incorporate WSUD treatments as part of city gateways and entry statements

• Size WSUD elements relative to the contributing impervious area (approximately 2-3% of its catchment depending on the geographical location)

• Generally, WSUD is most effective on slopes of 1 – 4%.

• Where slopes exceed 4% either bioretention street planters or additional flow control features (such as check dams with swales and bioretention systems) can be used

• Use WSUD elements such as bioretention swales on the high-side verge reserve if there is one.

• Where the street runs perpendicular to contours use either verge for bioretention systems.

• Ensure street or driveway crossovers of bioretention swales are either at grade or incorporate a culvert crossing. If this is not possible, use discrete WSUD elements separated by driveway crossovers.

• Native and endemic plant species can be utilised within the WSUD systems to absorb unwanted nutrients prior to discharge. These species can enhance local natural vegetation protecting local ecologies

• Traditional WSUD treatments must be adapted for use Cairns which is in a high rainfall ares

• Swales can be incorporated within the central median as part of a WSUD strategy

• Swales can also be simple grass depressions on the street edge or within an open space area.


Bioretention systems present a health risk?Badly performing WSUD treatments can present a health risk by promoting the presence of mosquito larvae in slow draining water retention systems. It is essential that WSUD features are designed to prevent the risk of insect breeding.

Should all streets have WSUD elements? It is not necessary or appropriate to provide WSUD elements on all streets.

How should WSUD elements be integrated with travel-ways and parking areas? Parking areas can be located adjacent to WSUD elements but should be designed to prevent vehicles damaging these systems. Bollards or kerbs with regular breaks are required to allow distributed flow to the WSUD element.

Parking areas may be interspersed between WSUD elements, such as parking bays between rain gardens.

Do WSUD elements require much maintenance? In the first two years it is important to remove weeds. Only limited maintenance is required after this.

39

DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFTWhere slopes exceed 4% either bioretention street

DRAFTWhere slopes exceed 4% either bioretention street planters or additional flow control features (such as

DRAFTplanters or additional flow control features (such as check dams with swales and bioretention systems)

DRAFTcheck dams with swales and bioretention systems)

Use WSUD elements such as bioretention swales

DRAFTUse WSUD elements such as bioretention swales on the high-side verge reserve if there is one.

DRAFTon the high-side verge reserve if there is one.Where the street runs perpendicular to contours

DRAFTWhere the street runs perpendicular to contours use either verge for bioretention systems.DRAFTuse either verge for bioretention systems.Ensure street or driveway crossovers of DRAFT

Ensure street or driveway crossovers of bioretention swales are either at grade or DRAFT

bioretention swales are either at grade or

the risk of insect breeding.

DRAFTthe risk of insect breeding.

Should all streets have WSUD elements?

DRAFTShould all streets have WSUD elements? It is not necessary or appropriate to provide WSUD

DRAFTIt is not necessary or appropriate to provide WSUD elements on all streets.

DRAFTelements on all streets.

How should WSUD elements be integrated with

DRAFTHow should WSUD elements be integrated with travel-ways and parking areas?

DRAFTtravel-ways and parking areas? Parking areas can be located adjacent to WSUD

DRAFTParking areas can be located adjacent to WSUD elements but should be designed to prevent vehicles

DRAFTelements but should be designed to prevent vehicles

2.8 What are the key challenges?

2.8.1 CyclonesThe Cairns Region is vulnerable to tropical storms and cyclones. At their most extreme cyclones can have a devastating impact on vegetation as demonstrated by Cyclone Agnes which struck Cairns in 1956, and more recently by Cyclones Larry and Yasi.

The Yasi Report carried out in Townsville by Greening Australia concluded that the value of trees in cyclones is not apparent at lower wind speeds of Category 1- weak 3 cyclones, but is more graphically demonstrated in the rarer Category high 3 - 4 events when trees are extremely valuable in catching flying debris and reducing wind loading on buildings.

It was also concluded that while Category 1-3 cyclones cause significant damage to urban vegetation, there is clear evidence that the majority of damage can be attributed to a small number of

highly susceptible tree species. Basic risk management needs to consider both the likelihood and consequences of an event, so large trees that can cause a lot of damage when they fail and that are susceptible to cyclones and likely to fail should be regarded as high risk. The consequence of tree failure is highest in areas of high potential impact, such as:

• In proximity to overhead electrical lines

• In proximity to buildings and other built infrastructure; and

• Along road sides where their failure can block road access.

Within a particular cyclone, not all individuals of a species behave the same, and the cyclone resistance of a population of trees, even within an urban environment, appears to fit a bell-shaped curve. Attempts have been made in the past to identify unifying traits of

40


DRAFTThe Yasi Report carried out in

DRAFTThe Yasi Report carried out in Townsville by Greening Australia

DRAFTTownsville by Greening Australia concluded that the value of trees

DRAFTconcluded that the value of trees in cyclones is not apparent at

DRAFTin cyclones is not apparent at lower wind speeds of Category

DRAFTlower wind speeds of Category 1- weak 3 cyclones, but is more

DRAFT1- weak 3 cyclones, but is more graphically demonstrated in

DRAFTgraphically demonstrated in the rarer Category high 3 - 4

DRAFTthe rarer Category high 3 - 4 events when trees are extremely

DRAFTevents when trees are extremely valuable in catching flying debris

DRAFTvaluable in catching flying debris and reducing wind loading on

DRAFTand reducing wind loading on buildings.DRAFTbuildings.

It was also concluded that while DRAFT

It was also concluded that while

cyclone resistant or susceptible trees to improve our powers of prediction. A range of traits are examined and discussed in detail, including flexibility, root system development, ease of defoliation, leaf size, open branching habits, density of the canopy or crown, termite resistance, growth rates, longevity, natural habitat type and taxonomic relationships.

B. Jackes in his Choosing plants for areas prone to cyclones 2011 lists many of the benefits provided by trees and shrubs during cyclones in addition to the obvious benefits of providing shade and attracting wildlife:

• Well-chosen healthy trees can protect buildings and people.

• Trees can intercept debris, which may otherwise become a flying missile.

• Well-chosen plants offer protection for other plants and objects.

• Well-chosen trees or plantings will protect stream banks in times of floods.

• Well-chosen trees reduce shoreline and landscape damage.

• Even if a tree falls on a house it may help to hold the roof on and belongings inside may be salvageable (Jackes 2011)

• Trees intercept flying debris. During Cyclone Tracy, it was noted that trees acted as a debris screen; immobilising a significant proportion of the flying debris” (Cameron et al. 1981).

Design principles• Introduced species tend to

perform worse than native plants during cyclones.

• The greatest diversity (number of species) impacted by the cyclone was amongst the medium sized trees, but the greatest number of individuals impacted by Cyclone Yasi were large trees

• Large trees were the biggest contributors to each of the damage classes (uprooted, broken trunk and broken branches)

• On average 95% of the power failures are caused by trees

• Peltophorum pterocarpum (Yellow Flame Tree/Copper Pod) and Tabebuia impetiginosa, syn. T. palmeri (Pink Trumpet Tree) were found to be the most susceptible species in regard to tree failure during Yasi

To view the Yasi Report please follow the links at:www.greeningaustralia.org.au

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DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFTand belongings inside may be

DRAFTand belongings inside may be salvageable (Jackes 2011)

DRAFTsalvageable (Jackes 2011) Trees intercept flying debris.

DRAFTTrees intercept flying debris. During Cyclone Tracy, it was

DRAFTDuring Cyclone Tracy, it was noted that trees acted as a

DRAFTnoted that trees acted as a debris screen; immobilising

DRAFTdebris screen; immobilising a significant proportion of the

DRAFTa significant proportion of the

DRAFTflying debris” (Cameron et al.

DRAFTflying debris” (Cameron et al. 1981).

DRAFT1981).

2.8.2 Power linesPower lines present a real constraint to the provision of street trees in our older more established suburbs. While recent developments provide under ground services the older areas of Cairns still rely on the traditional network of over head cables to supply their electricity.

Vegetation touching power lines is a proven risk to public safety and one of the main causes of power supply problems. Ergon Energy is responsible for the effective management of vegetation around power lines for the preservation of public safety and the reliability of the electricity supply.

42


DRAFT

DRAFTlines for the preservation of public safety and the

DRAFTlines for the preservation of public safety and the reliability of the electricity supply.

DRAFTreliability of the electricity supply.

An assessment of tree susceptibility and resistance to cyclones – with particular reference to Severe Tropical

Cyclone Yasi in Townsville on 2nd February 2011

While this is best achieved through the planting of appropriate species near power lines and the progressive replacement of undesirable vegetation; where there are existing stands of trees Ergon Energy implement a widespread tree management programme which protects power lines in accordance with the subscribed vegetation clearances around power lines:-

The Standard for Vegetation Management Describes Ergon Energy’s vegetation management responsibilities, processes and practices.

The Standard for Vegetation Clearing Profile Defines clearances required for different types of power lines in urban and rural areas.

These new standards refine and replace the Vegetation Code of Practice which was developed in 2002 following consultation with customers, local government councils, government departments, and special interest groups. For further details follow the links at; www.ergon.com.au


What strategies does Cairns Regional Council have to deal with the vegetation clearing profile?• Introduce large scale median tree planting to key

city streets (as the centre of the road is often the least constrained part of the reserve)

• Use shoulder planting to move trees away from power lines

• Introduce asymmetrical plantings for streets where power lines occur on one side only

• Underground power lines where shade trees are otherwise prohibited on key city streets (subject to local conditions and costs)

• Restricts the planting of trees under power lines • Investigate tree trials to establish species suitable

for growing under power lines

43

DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFT

DRAFT

DRAFTVegetation Code of Practice which was developed

DRAFTVegetation Code of Practice which was developed in 2002 following consultation with customers, local

DRAFTin 2002 following consultation with customers, local government councils, government departments, and

DRAFTgovernment councils, government departments, and special interest groups. For further details follow the

DRAFTspecial interest groups. For further details follow the

otherwise prohibited on key city streets (subject to

DRAFTotherwise prohibited on key city streets (subject to local conditions and costs)

DRAFTlocal conditions and costs)Restricts the planting of trees under power lines

DRAFTRestricts the planting of trees under power lines Investigate tree trials to establish species suitable

DRAFTInvestigate tree trials to establish species suitable for growing under power lines

DRAFTfor growing under power lines

Examples of young leaves affected by the myrtle rust infection

Fungal spores being carried by insects and on clothing

2.8.3 Myrtle RustMyrtle rust is a serious fungal disease that affects plants in the Myrtaceae family, such as rose apple (Lilly Pilly), tea tree and bottle brush. To date there have been a total of 1130 reported cases of myrtle rust in the State of Queensland, spread across 19 local government areas and affecting 125 species.

Myrtle rust is now considered “widespread” in New South Wales and while outbreaks of myrtle rust in Queensland have been concentrated in the south east; recent detections have been confirmed as far north as the Fraser Coast, Bundaberg, Gladstone and Rockhampton. Myrtle rust has also been detected at nurseries here in Cairns, Townsville, Airlie Beach and Chinchilla.

Myrtle rust is caused by a fungus (Puccinia psidii senu lato) which is native to South America. It can not be eradicated and will continue to spread because it produces thousands of spores that are easily spread by wind, human activity and animals.

The fungus attacks species within the Myrtaceae family, species such as eucalypts, paperbarks, bottlebrushes, tea trees, lilly pillies and lemon scented myrtles. Some key facts about Myrtaceae;

• Myrtaceae account for about 10% of Australia’s native flora • Our native vegetation is dominated by myrtaceous plants• Myrtaceae are very important ecologically• Myrtaceae account for 88 native genera and 2253 species in Australia• Myrtle rust will cause species and biodiversity loss within the

Myrtaceae

“If myrtle rust becomes established in Australia, it will have devastating socio-economic and environmentalimpacts on our native ecosystems, managed plantations and urban flora...”

44


DRAFTMyrtle rust is caused by a fungus

DRAFTMyrtle rust is caused by a fungus (Puccinia psidii senu lato)

DRAFT(Puccinia psidii senu lato) native to South America.

DRAFTnative to South America. It can not be eradicated and will continue to

DRAFTIt can not be eradicated and will continue to spread because it produces thousands of spores that are easily spread

DRAFTspread because it produces thousands of spores that are easily spread by wind, human activity and animals.

DRAFTby wind, human activity and animals.

The fungus attacks species within the Myrtaceae family, species such

DRAFTThe fungus attacks species within the Myrtaceae family, species such as eucalypts, paperbarks, bottlebrushes, tea trees, lilly pillies and lemon

DRAFTas eucalypts, paperbarks, bottlebrushes, tea trees, lilly pillies and lemon scented myrtles. Some key facts about Myrtaceae;

DRAFTscented myrtles. Some key facts about Myrtaceae;

Myrtaceae account for about 10% of Australia’s native flora

DRAFTMyrtaceae account for about 10% of Australia’s native flora

• DRAFT• Our native vegetation is dominated by myrtaceous plantsDRAFT

Our native vegetation is dominated by myrtaceous plantsMyrtaceae are very important ecologicallyDRAFT

Myrtaceae are very important ecologicallyMyrtaceae account for 88 native genera and 2253 species in AustraliaDRAFT

Myrtaceae account for 88 native genera and 2253 species in Australia

From left to right; example of the early signs of myrtle rust on Syzygium jambos.

Healthy Syzygium jambos in flower, introduced to Australia from Southeast Asia.

Photo of the myrtle rust spores on a flower bud

Because it is a new disease to Australia, we don’t yet know its full host range, however the impacts on some species could be severe. Myrtaceae includes more than 140 federally threatened species, including endangered species from the genera Decaspermum, Gossia, Kardoma, Melaleuca, Micromyrtus, Rhodamnia and Xanthostemon. According to the Australasian Plant Pathology Review (2007)while rusts are not known to have caused extinctions of myrtaceae the ‘genetic diversity in highly susceptible species could be greatly reduced”.

Glen, M A Alfenas, E Zuaza, M Wingfield and C Mohammed (2007) “Puccinia psidii: a threat to the Australian environment and economy - a review.” Australasian Plant Pathology 36 91-16).

For further information visit the Queensland Government Primary Fisheries and Industries (DPI) website www.dpi.qld.gov.au

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DESIGN ELEMENTS

DRAFT

DRAFTFor further information visit the Queensland Government Primary

DRAFTFor further information visit the Queensland Government Primary

DRAFT

DESIGN GUIDELINES

3

DRAFTGUIDELINES

DRAFTGUIDELINES

DRAFT

3.0 DESIGN GUIDELINES

48


DRAFT

Examples of WSUD treatments incorporated to verge.

3.1 StreetscapesOur Streets are designed in accordance with the FNQROC Regional Development Manual D1 Road Geometry (for further details follow links at www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au) and the Queensland Streets, Complete Streets Guidelines for Urban Street Design 2011 (for further details follow links at www.completestreets.org).

These documents provide the templates for our city streets and urban layout.

Complete Streets is a significant departure from previous editions of Queensland Streets in that it does not consider private vehicles to be the most significant travel mode. Instead these guidelines consider streets to be genuine community space where, through proper design, motor vehicles can be accommodated.

“Streets are once again becoming important places, and are taking their place in sustainable contemporary life”.

Recent changes to planning policy encourage more diversity in housing, a mix of land uses in communities, and developments more suited to walking, cycling and public transport use. It is important that our street designs reflect this shift and ensure a quality, integrated approach to both greenfield and infill development.

Complete Streets enables and encourages good design where pedestrians, cyclists and public transport patrons have equality of access in and around their communities and are not disadvantaged relative to motorists.

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DRAFTComplete Streets enables

DRAFTComplete Streets enables and encourages good design

DRAFTand encourages good design where pedestrians, cyclists

DRAFTwhere pedestrians, cyclists and public transport patrons

DRAFTand public transport patrons have equality of access in and

DRAFThave equality of access in and around their communities and

DRAFTaround their communities and are not disadvantaged relative to

DRAFTare not disadvantaged relative to motorists.

DRAFTmotorists.

Example of informal on-street parking incorporating WSUD treatments

on-street parking

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Example of informal on-street parking incorporating ‘turf-crete’ and wheels stops

3.2 Design of on-street parkingOn -street parking can be an important tool for creating street activity. On-street parking is limited to centre median parking or shoulder parking; refer to Part B 3.2 Street Trees Guidelines to Placement for further details of median and shoulder planting.

“Canopy trees are to be located so as to maximise shade to car parking spaces.”

Streets which cannot comply with the on-street parking provisions of ‘Queensland Streets’, due to reduced allotment frontage widths or carriageway widths, shall make provision for indented or verge parking bays at a minimum frequency of 1 parking bay per 2 allotments. Particular attention should be made to providing adequate provision for on-street parking at cul-de-sacs, turning heads and elbow bends

On-street parking needs to be adapted to local conditions and shoulder tree islands should be located to maximise shade to parked vehicles (for further details refer to Tree Guards FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing S4100 follow links at www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au).

Parking provisions are to be in accordance with the relevant sections of ‘Complete Streets’ (except for Major Collector Streets with a traffic generation of 3000 vpd - 6000 vpd,) and should comply with the current Australian Standard AS - 2890.5.

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DESIGN GUIDELINES

DRAFT(for further details refer to Tree Guards FNQROC

DRAFT(for further details refer to Tree Guards FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing S4100 follow

DRAFTDevelopment Manual Standard Drawing S4100 follow

Parking provisions are to be in accordance with the

DRAFTParking provisions are to be in accordance with the relevant sections of ‘Complete Streets’ (except for DRAFTrelevant sections of ‘Complete Streets’ (except for Major Collector Streets with a traffic generation of DRAFT

Major Collector Streets with a traffic generation of 3000 vpd - 6000 vpd,) and should comply with the DRAFT

3000 vpd - 6000 vpd,) and should comply with the

Example of off-street parking incorporating WSUD treatment

off-street parking

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Example of well designed off-street parking incorporating areas for the development of large shade trees

Example of off-street parking incorporating WSUD treatment and large shade trees

3.3 Design of off-street parkingParking provisions are to be in accordance with the relevant sections of ‘Complete Streets’ (except for Major Collector Streets with a traffic generation of 3000 vpd - 6000 vpd,) and should comply with the current Australian Standard AS - 2890.5.

Off-street parking should be located so that buildings, not parked cars are the dominant visual feature. Parking should be well integrated within the development and should relate to the streetscape, circulation routes and pedestrians. Landscaping should be used to soften and screen parking while observing CPTED principles.

Off-street parking should be designed to provide suitable tree cover to vehicles. Tree islands need to be of an adequate scale to allow for large shade tree canopy development.

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Example of LATM treatment incorporating planting and surface changes to alert drivers to changing conditions

local area traffic management

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Example of LATM incorporating WSUD and threshold treatment

3.4 Local Area Traffic Management (LATM)Local area traffic management are used to control traffic speeds and reduce through traffic in residential streets. LATM’s include perimeter treatments and internal treatments such as road humps, driveway links and slow points (for further details refer to the Manual of Uniform Traffic Devices Part 13 LATM and follow links at www.tmr.qld.gov.au) and usually form part of an area-wide scheme.

On local streets slow points can be installed to provide landscaped features which can prohibit traffic speeds and enhance residential areas with appropriate tree planting.

In areas of high commercial activity, medium to high density residential areas or recreational areas ‘shared zones’ can be constructed allowing complete pedestrian mobility; enhancing pedestrian safety where there are competing demands from pedestrians, moving vehicles and parking (a speed limit of 10 km/h is usually considered appropriate). Shared zones are typically differentiated by the use of full width flush paving and the use of landscaping.

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DESIGN GUIDELINES

DRAFTIn areas of high commercial activity, medium to high density residential

DRAFTIn areas of high commercial activity, medium to high density residential areas or recreational areas ‘shared zones’ can be constructed allowing

DRAFTareas or recreational areas ‘shared zones’ can be constructed allowing complete pedestrian mobility; enhancing pedestrian safety where there

DRAFTcomplete pedestrian mobility; enhancing pedestrian safety where there are competing demands from pedestrians, moving vehicles and parking

DRAFTare competing demands from pedestrians, moving vehicles and parking (a speed limit of 10 km/h is usually considered appropriate). Shared

DRAFT(a speed limit of 10 km/h is usually considered appropriate). Shared zones are typically differentiated by the use of full width flush paving and

DRAFTzones are typically differentiated by the use of full width flush paving and the use of landscaping.

DRAFTthe use of landscaping.

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3.5 Streetscape TemplatesCairns’ streets are divided into the following categories. These compliment the street sections provided by the FNQROC Development Manual Operational Works Design Guideline (D1) – Road Geometry and are taken from the current Trunk Infrastructure Planning Scheme Policy 4:04:05 which forms the basis for the Cairns road network.

• State Controlled Road • Sub-Arterial Road

» 4 lane median divided with parking » 4 lane median divided » 2 lane median divided » 2 lane undivided

• Industrial Collector Road• Rural Road

» Major » Minor

• Collector Road » Major » Minor

• Low Density Residential Road

The following templates demonstrate the typical cross section for each of the categories listed above and show those variations as detailed by the Cairns Transport Network Plan (TNP).

How to use the streetscape templatesGeneral streetscape elements• Refer to Streetscapes for details of on-street

and off-street parking and Local Area Traffic Management treatments.

• Refer to Part A Planting trees:• Select Design Theme in accordance with Design

Guidelines (Avenue/Grove)• Check street tree layouts against the Streetscape

Templates • Place trees in accordance with Street Trees

Guidelines to Placement

For full planting details:• Select planting solution in accordance with

Strategies for Improving Tree Planting within the Road Reserve and refer to the relevant FNQROC Standard Drawings: www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au

Selecting trees:• Select tree from the preferred tree list or the

general native tree list in accordance with the selection criteria established in Right Tree for the Right Location.

• Check with Precinct plans in Part B Cairns Precincts Master Plan for street and park tree palettes and street themes (arterial, sub-arterial and major collector roads only)

• Check the general and specific objectives for the precinct

• Check the planting palette for the area (indicates preferred tree species for parks and streets)

• Check street tree table for any specific planting themes

• Check planting against the streetscape templates

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DRAFT

The following templates demonstrate the typical DRAFT

The following templates demonstrate the typical cross section for each of the categories listed above DRAFT

cross section for each of the categories listed above

Check the planting palette for the area (indicates

DRAFTCheck the planting palette for the area (indicates preferred tree species for parks and streets)

DRAFTpreferred tree species for parks and streets)Check street tree table for any specific planting

DRAFTCheck street tree table for any specific planting themes

DRAFTthemes•

DRAFT• Check planting against the streetscape templates

DRAFTCheck planting against the streetscape templates

streetscape templatesarterial/sub-arterial

3.5.1 Sub-Arterial Road 4 lane median divided with centre parking/shoulder parking (40m road reserve) TNP Type G1

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3.5.2 Sub-Arterial Road 4 lane median divided/shoulder parking (40m road reserve) TNP Type G

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3.5.3 Sub Arterial Road 4 lane median divided (28m road reserve) TNP Type C

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3.5.4 Sub Arterial Road special treatment with separate bike lane (33m road reserve) TNP Type V1

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3.5.5 Sub-Arterial Road 2 lane median divided

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3.5.6 Sub Arterial Road 2 lane divided with WSUD (29m road reserve)TNP Type B

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3.5.7 Sub Arterial Road 4 lane undivided TNP Type D1

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3.5.8 Sub-Arterial Road 2 lane undivided TNP Type E

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3.5.9 Sub Arterial Road 2 lane undivided with special treatment TNP Type V

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low density residential

3.5.10 Industrial Collector Road3.5.11 Rural Road3.5.12 Major Collector Road3.5.13 Minor Collector Road3.5.14 Low Density Residential Road

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DRAFT

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Typical cross section of road reserve showing the three locations for tree planting - verge, shoulder and median.

“Canopy trees are to be located so as to maximise shade to paved areas, roads, seats and car parking spaces.”

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DRAFT

DRAFT“Canopy trees are to be located so as to maximise

DRAFT“Canopy trees are to be located so as to maximise shade to paved areas, roads, seats and car parking

DRAFTshade to paved areas, roads, seats and car parking

3.6 Street Trees Guidelines to placementOur streets can be divided into three distinct zones for tree planting (refer to typical cross section below);

• Median• Shoulder (tree islands)• Verge (nature strip or footpath)

While much of Cairns benefits from wide road reserves over head power lines often limit tree planting and reduce our capacity to provide a consistent shade canopy across our older suburbs. Cairns Regional Council has the following strategies to provide tree cover in these instances;

• Allow the installation of median street trees where tree canopies can be allowed to develop away from the required power line clearances.

• In local streets where median planting is not an option it is possible to utilise the road shoulder for tree planting

• Tree planting may be part of a broader LATM treatment

Design guidelines• A consistent treatment of shade trees is applied to all arterial/sub-

arterial and collector streets• A matrix of trees can be applied to access and residential streets and

cul-de-sacs• The provision of street trees is dependant on the road structure (refer

to street templates on pages 60-69 for full details of individual street sections)

• Canopy trees are to be located so as to maximise shade to paved areas, roads, seats and car parking spaces.

3.6.1 Relevant standards and guidelinesAll landscaping within the road reserve must comply with the relevant standards and guidelines set out by the documents and authorities listed below:

• FNQROC-Development Manual D9 Landscaping www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au » Tree planting standards , medians and tree islands » Placing trees at intersections

• Department of Main Roads-Road Planning and Design Manual www.mainroads.qld.gov.au » Calculating sight lines and clearances for roundabouts and intersections

• Ergon Code of Practice for Power line Clearance 2006 www.ergon.com.au power line clearances

• Crime Prevention through Design (CPTED) http://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/safetyPublic/

• CCC Policy Statement 1:04:06• Pedestrian All Mobility Access AS1428

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DESIGN GUIDELINES

DRAFTAllow the installation of median street trees where tree canopies can

DRAFTAllow the installation of median street trees where tree canopies can be allowed to develop away from the required power line clearances.

DRAFTbe allowed to develop away from the required power line clearances.In local streets where median planting is not an option it is possible to

DRAFTIn local streets where median planting is not an option it is possible to

Tree planting may be part of a broader LATM treatment

DRAFTTree planting may be part of a broader LATM treatment

A consistent treatment of shade trees is applied to all arterial/sub-

DRAFTA consistent treatment of shade trees is applied to all arterial/sub-

A matrix of trees can be applied to access and residential streets and

DRAFTA matrix of trees can be applied to access and residential streets and

The provision of street trees is dependant on the road structure (refer DRAFT

The provision of street trees is dependant on the road structure (refer to street templates on pages 60-69 for full details of individual street DRAFT

to street templates on pages 60-69 for full details of individual street

3.6.2 Trees within the MedianMedians help to separate motorists from one another, pedestrians, buildings and other urban fabric. This green corridor adds significantly to the aesthetics of the streetscape and often occupies the least constrained area of the road reserve. Medians allow for large scale tree planting and are a feature of our Gateways and major transport corridors (refer to Arterial and Sub-Arterial streetscape templates on page 60 for further details).

Median planting combining specimen figs and lush underplanting will become the defining landscape feature of our city centre streets (refer to Part D Cairns City Centre for full details).

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Design guidelines• Large canopy trees to provide strong and continuous avenues• Median trees are to be planted in accordance with FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing S4110

follow links @ www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au • Trees need to be in scale with the street (providing a suitable canopy on maturity)• Trees will be located at;• 15m centres where no median lighting is proposed• approx 8m centres between light poles • 1x tree equidistant between poles with centre parking (light pole @33m centres)• 2x tree equidistant between poles with centre parking (light pole @40m centres)


Median street trees are a hazard to driversUrban area medians with trees are proven to be safer than those without and can reduce crashes by as much as 50%. (R. Ewing, Caltrans Study, 2003). Street trees can reduce the apparent width of the road reserve and influence driver behaviour reducing vehicle speeds and making streets safer for pedestrians.

“Medians allow for large scale tree planting for our major transport corridors”.

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DRAFTUrban area medians with trees are proven to be safer than those without and can reduce crashes by as much

DRAFTUrban area medians with trees are proven to be safer than those without and can reduce crashes by as much as 50%. (R. Ewing, Caltrans Study, 2003). Street trees can reduce the apparent width of the road reserve and

DRAFTas 50%. (R. Ewing, Caltrans Study, 2003). Street trees can reduce the apparent width of the road reserve and influence driver behaviour reducing vehicle speeds and making streets safer for pedestrians.

DRAFTinfluence driver behaviour reducing vehicle speeds and making streets safer for pedestrians.

3.6.3 Trees within the shoulderThe shoulder was traditionally turfed but in recent years with increased car ownership many of these grassed areas have become subject to increased parking. Subsequent erosion leads to loss of amenity and creates dust during the dry months.

Road shoulder widths generally range between 2 to 5 metres. For the purposes of tree planting Council road shoulders can be divided into three categories;

• Bitumen only (trees are isolated in hard surfacing)• Bitumen with tree islands (trees are planted in tree islands)• Grass and crushed stone only (dominant in older established suburbs)

Note: where the road shoulder is yet to be sealed some trees are planted in a mix of grass and crushed stone only (dominant feature of the older established suburbs) Conditions in these areas can be equally damaging to trees as;

• Compaction of the ground around the tree base damages roots and leads to tree failure.

• Tree roots can become a nuisance and a hazard to vehicles and pedestrians.

• The appearance of the road edge is often very poor as eroded soil is washed away and causes the road surface to collapse

• The frequency of parking can impact adversely on the condition and appearance of the shoulder

• Erosion of the grass on the shoulder caused by excessive parking/traffic leads to high levels of dust during the dry season.

Example of shoulder planting with a ‘no kerb’ WSUD treatment - this allows water to penetrate tree islands (incorporates an inorganic mulch)

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DRAFTGrass and crushed stone only (dominant in older established suburbs)

DRAFTGrass and crushed stone only (dominant in older established suburbs)

Note: where the road shoulder is yet to be sealed some trees are planted

DRAFTNote: where the road shoulder is yet to be sealed some trees are planted in a mix of grass and crushed stone only (dominant feature of the older

DRAFTin a mix of grass and crushed stone only (dominant feature of the older established suburbs) Conditions in these areas can be equally damaging

DRAFTestablished suburbs) Conditions in these areas can be equally damaging

Compaction of the ground around the tree base damages roots and

DRAFTCompaction of the ground around the tree base damages roots and leads to tree failure.

DRAFTleads to tree failure.Tree roots can become a nuisance and a hazard to vehicles and

DRAFTTree roots can become a nuisance and a hazard to vehicles and pedestrians.

DRAFTpedestrians.

• DRAFT• The appearance of the road edge is often very poor as eroded soil is DRAFT

The appearance of the road edge is often very poor as eroded soil is washed away and causes the road surface to collapseDRAFT

washed away and causes the road surface to collapseThe frequency of parking can impact adversely on the condition and DRAFT

The frequency of parking can impact adversely on the condition and

Design guidelines• Trees to be planted outside required clearances

(see below)• Generally trees should be planted at 15 metre

centres and provide shade to car park spaces• The location of road verge plantings will need to

be adapted to access driveways so as to maintain general street shading

• Tree are to be planted in island beds:• Trees have room to develop healthy roots when

islands are of an appropriate size• Trees are easier to water and can be mulched and

fed appropriately• Root Barriers used to encourage appropriate root

development• Water manifolds can be installed at the time of

planting to facilitate the efficient delivery of water to encourage deeper root development

• Kerbs protect tree from damage by vehicles• Prevents potentially polluted run-off from contact

with tree root zone• Use of turf cells to areas where parking demands

are low• Parking restrictions where local neighbourhood

parking demands are low • Installation of tree islands and formalised parking

where parking demand is high refer to Tree Guards FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing S4100 follow links @ www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au

Response to common issues:

What are the agreed clearances for street trees from the edge of the traffic lane?The following table sets out the clearances as specified for State Control Roads: (figures refer to a road with a level, straight horizontal alignment)

Design guidelines – clearances from edge of traffic lane

Limit of traffic speed in km per hour and clearance required (60kph limits can be relaxed in urban areas or by introducing barriers)

• 60km per hour 3 metres• 80 km per hour 6 metres• 100 km per hour 8 metres

Why do we need tree islands?In areas where trees have become isolated in hard surfacing such as bitumen conditions can be extremely harsh for and is not recommended for future plantings. Trees planted in these areas can demonstrate the following problems:

• Trees become a hazard by lifting bitumen• Trees cannot obtain enough moisture or nutrients• Difficult to water and feed trees because of hard

surfacing• Trees suffer stress can become diseased and even

die• Branch damage from contact with vehicles that can

lead to infection and limb loss• Contact with vehicles during early development

can lead to a destabilising of the tree, creating an undesirable form and future instability

• Compaction caused by parking can destabilise the tree.


Street trees will reduce car parkingStreets are to be designed for all users and not just for vehicles and street trees are an essential urban feature that provides much needed shade to our city streets.

Example of shoulder tree island (refer to FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing S4100 follow links @ www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au)

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DRAFTPrevents potentially polluted run-off from contact

DRAFTPrevents potentially polluted run-off from contact

Use of turf cells to areas where parking demands

DRAFTUse of turf cells to areas where parking demands

Parking restrictions where local neighbourhood

DRAFTParking restrictions where local neighbourhood

Installation of tree islands and formalised parking DRAFT

Installation of tree islands and formalised parking where parking demand is high refer to Tree Guards DRAFT

where parking demand is high refer to Tree Guards

required (60kph limits can be relaxed in urban areas

DRAFTrequired (60kph limits can be relaxed in urban areas or by introducing barriers)

DRAFTor by introducing barriers)

60km per hour 3 metres

DRAFT60km per hour 3 metres•

DRAFT• 80 km per hour 6 metres

DRAFT80 km per hour 6 metres•

DRAFT• 100 km per hour 8 metres

DRAFT100 km per hour 8 metres

Why do we need tree islands?

DRAFTWhy do we need tree islands?In areas where trees have become isolated in

DRAFTIn areas where trees have become isolated in

3.6.4 Trees within the Verge (nature strip)For the purposes of tree planting Council verges can be divided into four categories:

• Pavement only (restricted to CBD and other commercial areas).

• Wide Footpath with grass strip (2 metre concrete footpath typical).

• Narrow Footpath with grass strip (1.2-1.5 metre footpath typical).

• Grass only (dominant in older established suburbs and new developments on local streets).

Pavement only – restricted to the Cairns City Centre and other commercial areasIn footways that are paved from building line to kerb the tree hole has traditionally been cut immediately behind the kerb, allowing the area closer to the building line for underground services.

Design guidelines• For the comfortable passage of pedestrians in

single file, a clear width of at least 1200mm is needed between the back of the tree hole and the building line.

• As the minimum practical setback of tree holes from the kerb is 800mm, the minimum width of footways that can be safely planted is 1600mm (800mm plus 800mm), subject to the following conditions:

• That there are no obstructions overhanging the building line from the front yard of the adjacent property (e.g. awnings shrubs and vines)

• That the lower branches of the tree have been pruned to a height of at least 1800mm.

• Tree planting within the Cairns City Centre is generally restricted to median islands (refer to Part D Cairns City Centre for full details of tree planting).

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DRAFTproperty (e.g. awnings shrubs and vines)

DRAFTproperty (e.g. awnings shrubs and vines)That the lower branches of the tree have been

DRAFTThat the lower branches of the tree have been pruned to a height of at least 1800mm.

DRAFTpruned to a height of at least 1800mm.Tree planting within the Cairns City Centre is

DRAFTTree planting within the Cairns City Centre is generally restricted to median islands (refer to Part

DRAFTgenerally restricted to median islands (refer to Part D Cairns City Centre for full details of tree planting).

DRAFTD Cairns City Centre for full details of tree planting).

Design guidelines• Street trees planted in paved areas are to be

installed with tree grates and tree grilles in areas of high pedestrian use and should be planted in accordance with FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing Urban Street Tree Planting S4210-CRC (follow links at www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au)

• Nature strip needs to be at least 1600mm wide to accommodate street trees

• Street trees need to be set back at least 800mm from the back of kerb/edge of footpaths

• Pedestrian movement and safety can often be impeded by inappropriate plantings within the verge of large shrubby plants or palms such as Golden Cane. This obviously is a great concern within areas of high pedestrian movement.

• Street trees (outside urban centres) are to be planted in accordance with FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing Street Tree Planting S4210 (follow links at www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au)

When intending to carry out works within the verge please refer to council’s local laws (follow link to www.cairns.qld.gov.au).

Wide Footpath with grass strip – 2.0 metre concrete footpath typicalGenerally this width of path is used on 4.5 metre verges and results in a planting strip of no more than 1.6 metres. In some cases where the verge width is less than 4.5 metres the nature strip, that is to say the area made available for the planting of street trees is reduced to as little as 1 metre (or even less in severe cases) which is not deemed to be sufficient for the growing of street trees.

Narrow footpath with grass strip – 1.2 -1.5 metre footpaths typicalThe narrower footpaths are usually found in the older areas, the nature strips here tend to be wider and better suited to the planting of Street Trees, with 0.5 - 0.8 metres more space available on a 4.5 metre verge.

Grassed footways – dominant in older established suburbsThis treatment is most often seen in the smaller residential streets in the older suburbs of Cairns.

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DRAFTimpeded by inappropriate plantings within the

DRAFTimpeded by inappropriate plantings within the verge of large shrubby plants or palms such as

DRAFTverge of large shrubby plants or palms such as Golden Cane. This obviously is a great concern

DRAFTGolden Cane. This obviously is a great concern within areas of high pedestrian movement.

DRAFTwithin areas of high pedestrian movement.•

DRAFT• Street trees (outside urban centres) are to be

DRAFTStreet trees (outside urban centres) are to be planted in accordance with FNQROC Development

DRAFTplanted in accordance with FNQROC Development Manual Standard Drawing Street Tree Planting

DRAFTManual Standard Drawing Street Tree Planting S4210 (follow links at www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au)

DRAFTS4210 (follow links at www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au)Grassed footways – dominant in older established

DRAFTGrassed footways – dominant in older established

This treatment is most often seen in the smaller

DRAFTThis treatment is most often seen in the smaller residential streets in the older suburbs of Cairns.

DRAFTresidential streets in the older suburbs of Cairns.

3.7 Strategies for improving planting within the road reserve

Why this is importantTrees selected for our streets may occupy their planting sites for 50 to 200 years, so tree selection is vitally important, and the use of suitable and proven technologies to ensure the health and vigour of our street trees will help to ensure that they provide long term amenity to our cityscape.

Design guidelinesWater/Aeration Pipes• Water pipes help deliver water efficiently to the root zone and

encourage the development of a healthy deep root system and discourage the tendency of urban trees to search for surface water. They also allow oxygen to penetrate down below hard surfacing and thus aerate the root zone. Refer FNQROC-Development Manual for standard details of tree planting www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au

Tree Guards• These are useful in urban areas where the likelihood of vandalism

is greater. The guards make opportune damage to young and susceptible trees more difficult. Refer to Standard Drawing S4210 CRC FNQROC-Development Manual for details of tree guards www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au

Root Directors• Root barriers are a useful strategy in the minimisation of damage to

pavements, kerbs, services and other infrastructure. The purpose of the root barrier or Root Director is to guide the growing tip of spreading roots in a direction that will cause the least damage, that is to say down.

• The difference between a root barrier and a root director is quite simple. A root barrier comes in a long roll and is laid along the length of the area to be protected, extending at least 1 metre from the estimated limit of the tree canopy on maturity. A root director is a barrier box which surrounds the tree on planting and restricts and “directs” the roots downwards.

• Tree root management solutions will vary according to the tree species, its planting location and the depth of any adjacent services or foundations. Linear barriers are preferred where a row of trees are to be installed and kerbs need to be protected, remember that root barriers should extend 1000mm beyond the estimated drip line of the crown of the tree at maturity. Root barriers can be used to line kerbs or footpaths allowing the maximum growth area for roots and protecting trees from future kerb or pavement upgrades. For isolated trees, or trees planted in islands or medians a root director can be installed, they are easier to install and hard to install incorrectly.

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DRAFTWater pipes help deliver water efficiently to the root zone and

DRAFTWater pipes help deliver water efficiently to the root zone and encourage the development of a healthy deep root system and

DRAFTencourage the development of a healthy deep root system and discourage the tendency of urban trees to search for surface water.

DRAFTdiscourage the tendency of urban trees to search for surface water. They also allow oxygen to penetrate down below hard surfacing and

DRAFTThey also allow oxygen to penetrate down below hard surfacing and thus aerate the root zone. Refer FNQROC-Development Manual for

DRAFTthus aerate the root zone. Refer FNQROC-Development Manual for standard details of tree planting www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au

DRAFTstandard details of tree planting www.fnqroc.qld.gov.au

Tree Guards

DRAFTTree Guards

These are useful in urban areas where the likelihood of vandalism

DRAFTThese are useful in urban areas where the likelihood of vandalism is greater. The guards make opportune damage to young and

DRAFTis greater. The guards make opportune damage to young and susceptible trees more difficult. Refer to Standard Drawing S4210

DRAFTsusceptible trees more difficult. Refer to Standard Drawing S4210 CRC FNQROC-Development Manual for details of tree guards www.

DRAFTCRC FNQROC-Development Manual for details of tree guards www.fnqroc.qld.gov.auDRAFTfnqroc.qld.gov.au

Root DirectorsDRAFT

Root Directors

Example of root cell installation in tree pit

Root Disturbance• Any work carried out around the base of any

tree must be kept to a minimum. Disturbance of root systems can be very harmful even to the largest of trees. The cutting of roots can lead to a progressive weakening of growth and stability that can result in disease and collapse.

Tree Protection during on site works • Trees should be adequately protected during

on site works. Trunks should be wrapped where appropriate and the root zone fenced off as far as the drip line of the crown of the tree to avoid unnecessary compaction of the root zone by heavy vehicles. Heavy compaction destroys the soils capacity for aeration and the tree can “suffocate”.

Use of Soil Conditioners• Soil conditioners improve the growing conditions

for plants in the root zone. They usually consist of fertilisers, hydro-absorbent copolymers and root stimulating organic fertilisers.

• Soil Conditioners can improve the following: » Water and Nutrient retention capacity by as much as 50%

» Soil Structure » Aeration - vital oxygen to the root zone » Root and Plant Growth

Structural Soils and associated technologies• Structural soils can be employed to increase

the potential area for root development while maintaining the structural integrity of hard surfaces. A matrix of gravels and soils are balanced to provide a suitable base for hard landscaping and a more hospitable environment for root development with improved aeration.

• Structural soils are particularly useful when tree planting in areas of hard landscaping such as car parks and inner city

• “Root Cell” systems provide a sub-surface matrix which can be loaded with 90% topsoil by volume, and sustain loads of up to 80 tonnes per square meter. In comparison structural soils can hold as little as 5% soil by volume. “Root Cells” are ideal for use in areas of extensive hardscaping such as pedestrian malls and car parks (refer to Standard Drawing Urban Street Tree Planting S4210-CRC FNQROC Development Manual for full details).

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DRAFT

DRAFT

DRAFTSoil conditioners improve the growing conditions

DRAFTSoil conditioners improve the growing conditions for plants in the root zone. They usually consist of

DRAFTfor plants in the root zone. They usually consist of fertilisers, hydro-absorbent copolymers and root

DRAFTfertilisers, hydro-absorbent copolymers and root

Soil Conditioners can improve the following:

DRAFTSoil Conditioners can improve the following:

Water and Nutrient retention capacity by as much

DRAFTWater and Nutrient retention capacity by as much

Aeration - vital oxygen to the root zoneDRAFT

Aeration - vital oxygen to the root zone

August 2014 - Cairns Regional Council119-145 Spence Street - PO Box 359 - Cairns - QLD 4870

Ph: (07)4044 3044 F: (07)4044 3022 E: [email protected]

This document is available on the Cairns Regional Council website:www.cairns.qld.gov.au

DRAFT

Documents

CAIRNS PART B · PART B DESIGN GUIDELINES August 2014 - Cairns Regional Council 119-145 Spence Street - PO Box 359 - Cairns - QLD 4870 Ph: (07)4044 3044 F: (07)4044 3022 E: [email protected]