UPDATE: Controversial plans to demolish a native long-leaved box tree in Orange for a new housing project have sparked urgent concern among local residents. The proposal, submitted to the Orange City Council, seeks to clear the tree from the property located at 9 Hilldale Crescent, purchased for $660,000 in February 2025.
The development application (DA) raises alarms over the tree’s stability, claiming it poses a risk due to unpredictable branch falls. Officials warned that “such failures can occur suddenly and without clear indicators,” creating a potential hazard for property damage. The average diameter of fallen branches is reported at 24.5 cm, with sizes ranging from 16.9 cm to 30 cm.
Residents have until November 20 to voice their opinions on the proposal, which has ignited a passionate debate about environmental preservation versus housing development. The application argues that keeping both trees on the property creates a “practical limitation” for construction, as the current building envelope requires any house to be positioned towards the back of the lot, away from the street.
The project owner insists that moving the building area towards the center of the block and removing the larger tree is crucial for successful construction. “It’s a challenging and expensive prospect,” the report states, emphasizing that both trees cannot be preserved without significant impacts to their health.
If the DA is approved, compensatory planting is promised to take place elsewhere on the site, but many community members remain skeptical. “We need to consider the long-term health of our environment,” remarked a local resident, highlighting the emotional stakes involved.
As debate heats up, the clock is ticking for residents to make their voices heard on this critical issue. The outcome could set a precedent for future developments in Orange, making it essential for community members to engage in the conversation now.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops and the deadline approaches.
