​The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) today (September 24) removed a withered Old and Valuable Tree (OVT) on Ngau Pei Sha Street in Sha Tin in order to ensure public safety.

     The tree, which was a mango tree (Mangifera indica) with the registration number LCSD ST/2 on the Register of OVTs, was found to have fungal infection in February this year. The LCSD promptly carried out risk mitigation measures, including crown cleaning and application of fungicide. However, the health condition of the tree declined, as indicated by the obvious wood decay at the trunk base. 

     The LCSD later conducted a joint on-site tree inspection with the Greening, Landscape and Tree Management Section (GLTMS) of the Development Bureau in June and confirmed the tree was withered. It did not pose imminent danger but had a potential risk of collapse. The department then consulted the Sha Tin District Council about removal of the tree and no objection was received. The GLTMS also informed the Urban Forestry Advisory Panel of the proposal to fell the tree. The tree was therefore removed today for the sake of public safety.

     A spokesman for the LCSD said that the department would continue to adopt a prudent approach in inspecting and managing trees under its care. Removal of problematic trees will be undertaken only when no other viable risk mitigation measure is available.

Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Issued at HKT 15:00

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