Adelaide Golf Course Tree Removal Count in Dispute, Court Told

The exact number of trees slated for removal

The exact number of trees slated for removal at the North Adelaide Golf Course remains unclear, according to statements made in court on Tuesday, contradicting earlier assurances from the state's leader.

During a hearing at the Environment, Resources and Development Court, counsel for the state government acknowledged that the precise figure of trees to be felled as part of the redevelopment project has not been finalized. This admission directly challenges Premier Peter Malinauskas's previous public statements that only a specific, limited number of trees would be affected.

The legal dispute arose after a community group, the North Adelaide Golf Course Action Team, sought a judicial review of the planning approval for the project, arguing that the environmental impact was underestimated. Their lawyer, Mark Bender, pressed the government's representative on the tree count, noting that the figure had fluctuated in official documents.

In response, the government's counsel, Sarah Ward, conce…

In response, the government's counsel, Sarah Ward, conceded that the number "is not certain at this stage" and that further assessments may be required. She emphasized, however, that the project's overall environmental safeguards remain robust, regardless of the final tally.

The court heard that the redevelopment, which includes upgrades to the course and new housing, has been a point of contention, with residents and environmentalists voicing concerns over the loss of mature trees and green space. The Premier had previously stated in a radio interview that "only about 30 trees" would be removed, a figure that now appears to be in doubt.

The judge reserved his decision on whether to allow the judicial review to proceed, with a ruling expected later this month. Meanwhile, the community group has called for a halt to any preparatory works until the matter is resolved.