Increasing tree canopy cover is important for climate change adaptation in urban areas. Trees provide shade, cooling, contribute to improved storm water management and urban amenity.
The urban heat island effect in Western Sydney is a major challenge that affects the health and wellbeing of the community. Increasing tree canopy cover in urban areas is a way to mitigate the urban heat island effect to create cooler communities and a more liveable future.
Under the Greening our City program, the NSW Government aims to expand urban tree canopy to 40 percent across Greater Sydney with a target to plant 1 million new trees by 2022. There is also a longer-term commitment to plant 5 million trees by 2030. The program focuses on planting more trees in streets, parks, private yards, neighbourhoods and schools.
Launched in July 2019, Rosemeadow was the first demonstration project for the program and supports the implementation of the Premier’s Priorities. The project is an innovative NSW Government initiative that sets a new benchmark for tree planting in urban environments to improve liveability for communities in areas with critical urban heat problem.
Purpose of the Rosemeadow demonstration project
Methodology framework
In collaboration with Campbelltown City Council, the department commissioned 3 design documents to demonstrate industry best-practice and showcase the methodology, learnings and outcomes of the project.
These documents are intended for use by councils and industry to replicate for tree plantings on streets, reserves and in open spaces.
- 1. Haydon Park investigation study
- 2. Street tree planting design manual
- 3. Copperfield drive technical study
Haydon Park investigation study – Planting trees in stormwater basins: a theoretical case study that tests the impact of tree planting in dual-purpose open space that also functions as a stormwater detention basin.
Investigation study part 1 (8.8 MB, PDF)
Investigation study part 2 (4.1 MB, PDF)
Street tree planting design manual: a how to guide to identify and prioritise streets for tree planting, design considerations and innovative tree planting solutions.
Design manual (10.3 MB, PDF)
Copperfield drive technical study: an example of best-practice design for street trees and integrated water management system. Built works on Copperfield Drive have been installed as a living demonstration of the outcomes of this project.
Technical study (8.1 MB, PDF)
In October 2021, the department held a webinar showcasing three different scales of projects where innovative approaches to using stormwater have been adopted and help provide improved outcomes for trees.
If you missed the session, you can watch the webinar recording.
Project overview
Community consultation
Extensive community consultation was undertaken in 2019 to ensure the successful delivery of the project. The local community, including residents and schools were actively involved in the design of streets, open spaces and the planting of trees.
Between 2020-2021 the project was impacted by drought, bushfires and COVID-19 restrictions. In 2021, Campbelltown City Council informed the community about upcoming tree planting activities in their local area.
Project design
2019 to 2021: With research from REALMstudios, E2DesignLab and Spiire, the project explored integrated stormwater management and its role in supporting passive irrigation and a healthy urban tree canopy, along with research partners, Macquarie, Western Sydney University and Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.
Tree planting in Rosemeadow
Activities to prepare for tree planting in Rosemeadow started in June 2021. Trees are planned to be planted at the following locations:
- Copperfield Drive: 300 trees
- Reserves: 1,200 trees
- Schools: 450 trees
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tree planting has been delayed until restrictions ease.
Want to know more?
To find out more about the project please contact the project team via email.
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