Moreton Bay fig trees damaging Albany’s Old Gaol set for removal and replaced by red-gums after council vote

Two 40-year-old fig trees will be removed from next to Albany’s Old Gaol following a report that their roots are damaging the structure’s foundations. At its August 27 meeting, the City of Albany council voted to permanently remove two Moreton Bay fig trees adjacent to the Old Gaol after an arborist and engineer reported structural damage to the heritage building as a result of intrusive root systems. The report states the damage to the gaol occurred because of roots growing under the building foundations, creating upward pressure that has resulted in lifted pavers and cracks in the masonry. Cr Malcolm Traill said though he is a “reluctant seconder” to the motion of removing the trees, he considers it a necessary course of action. “In this instance, I think if the trees don’t go, the gaol will,” he said. “The gaol is a sad place, but sad places have a place in history, and in our heritage as well. “We pride ourselves as a heritage city, we’ve got heritage assets that outstrip many in most of WA. “As sad as it is to see these big trees go . . . I think it’s going to be short-term pain for long-term gain.” Built in 1852, the gaol first housed colonial convicts before serving as a general prison until the late 1930s. It has operated as a museum since 1996 and is listed on the State Heritage register. Issues were first raised with the fig tree’s roots in 2008, with members of the public raising concerns about them being a trip hazard. Mitigating measures, including a root barrier installed “sometime after” 2018, proved ineffective in preventing further damage. The closest of the Moreton Bay figs — a species not native to the Great Southern — is 16m from the eastern wall and is estimated to be 12m tall with a 28m diameter canopy. Resident Annabel Paulley spoke in public question time against the trees’ removal, labelling the decision “mortifying” and asking the council to “find such a solution which allows both the trees and the buildings to coexist.” The two trees will be replaced by six native red-flowering gum trees whose roots will not disturb the structure. The motion was carried seven to three with Cr’s Mario Lionetti, Delma Baesjou and Lynn MacLaren voting against it.