Newcastle Education Campus

We are living in a period of climate crisis, and more and more cities are planning for changes to the built and natural environment to account for rising temperatures. Increasing and preserving tree canopy cover and building shade structures are central to these plans.

This proposal to remove 92 mature trees runs counter to the correct approach to disaster planning for climate change. Not only is the action wrong, it sends an extremely poor signal to the students who will be the ones most affected by climate change in the future.

Further, I understand that no Biodiversity Assessment has been undertaken to assess the impact of this proposal on the habitat of the vulnerably listed Grey Headed Fly Fox.

SEE attached file outlining my comments and reasons for opposing this prioject

Dear Mr. Crakanthrop,

I need your urgent help on an important matter. There's a proposal for the removal of 92 mature trees from the National Park Street site at Newcastle campus. The area is home to the grey-faced flying fox, a vulnerable species, and no Biodiversity Assessment has been conducted.

I'm deeply concerned about three aspects of this proposal. First, the environmental impact: losing so many trees will seriously affect the urban habitat and biodiversity. We've already lost 100 trees to make way for a car park, and this additional removal could lead to a decline in various bird and animal species.

Secondly, there's a financial aspect: spending on new sports courts, additional staff parking, and a circular drive seems unnecessary when there are already existing facilities nearby. We shouldn't prioritize development over preserving the natural environment.

Lastly, the psycho-social implications: studies show that access to a natural environment positively impacts mental well-being. With more students experiencing anxiety and depression, removing 92 trees could be detrimental to their emotional health.

It's ironic that we teach students about environmental importance, yet we're willing to destroy their own school's natural environment. What message does that send to future generations?

Submissions close on 2 August 2023, so I'm hoping you can help stop this proposal and initiate an environmental review to explore more sustainable alternatives.

Looking forward to your response.

Thanks,
Sophie