Council's open spaces contractor Recreational Services has apologised for any distress caused by the cutting back of Azalea bushes to ground level at the western end of Manson's Gardens by the pedestrian rail underpass.
With many of the older established plantings at the historic Manson’s Gardens such as the Azaleas being significant to Taumarunui residents the visual impact of the work saw a flurry of complaints to Council.
Regional Manager Ed Hadfield said that while the work was undertaken by their horticulturist with the long-term health of the Azalea bushes in mind they appreciate the shock this may have caused some people.
"In the opinion of our horticulturist the Azaleas were in a poor condition due to a little or no maintenance over many years," he said.
"This had caused a large amount of dead wood to be on the plants and there was a significant amount of disease present.
Although very extreme, it was decided that the best way to care for the plants was to cut them back to ground level and allow them to re-sprout again which is starting to happen with the new spring growth.
We will now be able to manage their regeneration and with active care and pruning ensure they come back in a healthier condition and provide many more years of pleasure to people.
With the benefit of hindsight it would have been better to consult with the Ward Committee before undertaking the work so people could be advised in advance about the pruning plan and why it was necessary."
With this in mind are now developing a management plan for Manson’s Gardens that will outline the work programme for the gardens.
The plan will be presented to the new Taumarunui-Ohura Community Board and any other interested parties for feedback before implementation,” he said.
Council's Manager Community and Recreational Facilities Rina Hepi said that Manson's Gardens was one of the 'jewels in Taumarunui's crown' and both Council and Recreational Services are committed to ensuring it receives the best possible care and attention.
The longer term vision is to have management and development plans for all of Council's key reserve areas under Recreational Services care," she said.
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