Council’s actions in trees saga were ‘serious and sustained’ leadership failure

The Council set up an independent tree panel to find a compromise on tree replacement. However, the panel and public were misled, leading to a loss of trust. Despite legal challenges, the Council maintained its stance, rejecting recommendations and failing to amend contracts. An inquiry found leadership failures and poor communication further eroded trust. By 2018, pressure from various stakeholders led to a change in approach, pausing the tree replacement program.

What role did political leadership play in the Council's strategic failures?

What factors led the Council to change its approach in the spring of 2018?

What were the concerns raised by the police regarding the Council's actions?