Lincoln Town Centre upgrade planting more than 50 new trees
Selwyn District Council media release: 19th May 2025
As part of the Lincoln Town Centre upgrade, Selwyn District Council are planting more than 50 new trees to increase the town’s tree canopy, creating a vibrant green space for residents and visitors to the main street. To maintain key underground infrastructure and accommodate the new design, five existing trees will be removed.
The Council’s Executive Director of Infrastructure and Property Tim Mason says the trees’ removal is necessary due to their impact on underground infrastructure, safety concerns, and alignment with the new town centre design.
The trees to be removed are the three London Planes at the Gerald/Robert/William intersection and the London Plane and Norway Maple at the Gerald Street and Lyttelton Street intersection.
The trees will be removed as part of the construction once a contractor is on board for stage one of the upgrade work, which will start over summer 2025/ 2026. A tendering process to award this contract is set to begin shortly.
“An independent arborist was engaged to complete an Arboricultural Impact Assessment, evaluating the effects of the proposed design on existing trees and vegetation,” says Mason.
“Although five trees will be removed, through a comprehensive review process, the project team implemented design modifications and mitigation strategies that enabled the retention of seven other trees that were conflicting with the design.”
“New trees will be planted nearby with improved soil systems to support healthy growth and enhance the streetscape.”
A variety of tree species and sizes will be planted, including some more mature trees to help provide a more established feel at the end of construction, says Mason.
The design to increase the tree canopy in Lincoln is about providing additional shade, promoting biodiversity and potential birdlife, and adding seasonal interest and colour to the main street.
“We understand how important it is to protect existing trees where we can, and we’re looking forward to seeing the new trees take shape in Lincoln.”
About the Lincoln Town Centre upgrade
As the town's population grows at pace, the Council is proud to be supporting Lincoln's growth from a rural township to a thriving town centre.
We are working to future-proof the community with smart planning, plenty of safe parking, and vibrant spaces where everyone can connect and thrive.
Key features of stage one:
- Planting more than 50 trees to strengthen the green space and canopy.
- 115 new car parks (68 in Northern carpark, 47 in Southern carpark – to be completed in mid-2025).
- Slow speed zone, safer for traffic, pedestrians and cyclists.
- Adding cycle lanes.
- New Gerald Street public space to bring community together, more accessible for pedestrians.
- Multiple pedestrian crossings.
Find out more about the Lincoln Town Centre upgrade or email lincolntcplan[at]selwyn.govt.nz.