A developer who destroyed an 80-year-old oak tree has copped more than he bargained for, when he decided to appeal a fine issued by City of Canterbury Bankstown Council.
The builder had been issued with a $3,000 fine for non-compliance with tree protection measures, after a Council officer visited his Revesby construction site last year.
Unhappy with the fine, the developer lodged an appeal and the matter was dealt with at the Bankstown Local Court earlier this month. The Court slapped the developer, who failed to appear in court, with a hefty $45,000 fine.
The Court heard that a Council inspection showed excavation work was occurring within a required Tree Protection Zone without the supervision of a certified arborist.
As a result, the structural stability of the protected English Oak had been compromised and Council had no choice but to call for the removal of the now-unsafe tree.
Magistrate Walsh, who delivered the judgement, said the developer was “well versed in the legal ways to deal with this situation”.
“Cost cutting can be the only reason behind the actions,” Magistrate Walsh said.
A spokesperson said Council recognised the importance of protecting valuable tree resources.
“Council takes environmental enforcement seriously and we will not tolerate those who want to cut corners,” the spokesperson said.
“May this act as a warning that if you are doing the wrong thing, you will be caught and you will be fined.”
Residents are encouraged to report any information regarding non-compliance at building sites by calling Council on 9707 9000.
