Assessments Leading to Replacement of Mature Khaya and Sea Apple Trees in Public Spaces

87 Ms Lee Hui Ying asked the Minister for National Development (a) how assessments are conducted prior to the replacement of mature Khaya and sea apple trees in public spaces, including whether such assessments are carried out by a single arborist or a panel of experts; (b) whether the Ministry will consider making tree assessment reports public; and (c) how the timber from such trees is repurposed following removal.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The National Parks Board (NParks) has a rigorous tree inspection and maintenance regime that is aligned with the best practices of the International Society of Arboriculture. Prior to the replacement of Khaya and sea apple trees in public spaces for safety reasons, assessments are conducted to evaluate factors that may compromise tree stability and public safety, such as the presence of basal rot or constraints to root growth arising from limited growing space. In line with industry practice, all assessments are conducted by a certified arborist, who may seek a second professional opinion from a more senior arborist as needed.

The tree assessment reports are private documents commissioned by the tree owners.

In NParks-managed areas, horticultural waste generated from landscape operations is recycled as mulch for use in landscapes, which helps to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture and provide nutrients for trees and plants. Some wood waste is also used by biomass plants to generate energy that feeds into the electrical grid. In addition, timber from removed trees may be repurposed into park furniture, footpath elements and play features in Nature Playgardens.