Gist of the Thirteenth Meeting held on 27 March 2014

1. Progress report on replanting proposal of ex-YTM/8 site and Phase 2 of planter extension along Nathan Road
   • Members discussed the proposals on replanting of the ex-YTM/8 site and on Phase 2 and Phase 3 of planter extension along Nathan Road near Park Lane. Members considered that there was a need to improve soil conditions and widen the planter for the ex-YTM/8 site and agreed that Ficus microcarpa would be the preferred species for replacement to maintain the historical heritage and continuity of planting along Nathan Road.
   • Members were supportive of the proposals of Phase 2 and Phase 3 planter extension.
2. Draft Management Guidelines for Mature Trees
   • Members were briefed that the draft guidelines had been developed based on international references and the experience gathered by the TMO and departments, in which a preventive and proactive approach to promote tree health as a management strategy for mature trees was suggested.
   • Members considered that due consideration should be given to the balanced need of urban development and tree preservation and more emphasis should be put on preventive measures to avoid degrading the site conditions.
3. Draft Guidelines on Tree Transplanting
   • Members discussed the draft and considered that the guidelines would become a practical reference for departments' planning, implementation and monitoring of tree transplanting works.