As part of the €15million Balbriggan Quay Street and Harbour redevelopment project, Fingal County Council has announced an exciting new tree planting initiative.
A total of 20 trees are to be planted around the Quay Street Car Park and along the adjoining River Bracken.
The planting of 12 large Acer trees and two Alnux x Spathelli trees at the car park will majorly enhance the area’s environment, to be completed by the end of November.
Six Alnux x Spathelli will be planted at a later date, along the newly developed plaza, along the river.
The Acer is a variety of Sycamore, recognised for its resilience in urban environments, being especially well-suited for coastal settings due to its impressive tolerance for salt spray and air pollution.
It thrives in challenging conditions, but also contributes to the overall health of the urban ecosystem.
The move will effectively enhance urban greenery while promoting sustainability and resilience in the landscape.
One of the most striking features of the Acer is its dark green, five-lobed leaves, which contribute a bold presence.
These trees will be planted at a substantial size of 30-35 cm girth, ensuring immediate visual impact.
At full maturity, they can reach heights exceeding 15 metres, with a canopy spread of over 10 metres. They will create a significant and impressive addition to the car park.
To enhance accessibility, their canopies will be maintained at a height of over 2 meters, allowing for easy passage beneath them.
The Alnux x Spathelli is a variety of Alder recognised for its resilience in an urban environment and is well-suited to paved areas, and coastal locations.
Its hardiness not only supports the tree’s growth, but also plays a vital role in enhancing urban greenery.
By improving air quality and providing essential habitat for local wildlife, Alnus x Spaethii stands out as a sustainable choice for fostering biodiversity.
These trees will be planted at substantial sizes, 40-45 cm girth in the plaza near the river, and 30-35 cm girth in the car park, ensuring immediate visual impact.
At full maturity, these trees can reach heights of over 15 metres, with a canopy spread exceeding 10 metres, making them a striking addition to both the car park and the river.
To enhance accessibility and ensure easy passage beneath them, their canopies will be maintained at a height of over two meters.
By integrating these large trees into urban spaces, the aim is to enhance the visual appeal of the area while also promoting ecological health and sustainability.
This approach not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the landscape, but also fosters biodiversity, improves air quality, and enhances overall community well-being.
Existing Acer trees in the car park could not be retained due roots being severely constrained within the narrow verges.
These verges have been reworked as part of necessary engineering upgrades to the car park.
It was determined that felling these trees was the best option, as they would likely have sustained root damage beyond a safe threshold for retention.
New trees will have 16 cubic meters of soil, offering ample rooting space.
Previously, a recommended selection had included the majestic Quercus Palustris for its vibrant autumnal foliage, impactful presence, ability to thrive in an urban environment and positive contributions towards biodiversity.
However, it was not possible to obtain the appropriate starting size of these trees needed for impact in the car park, as a result of a restricted availability due to the presence of processionary Oak Moth in European stocks.
Future selection of tree species will meet the following criteria:
- Urban resilience and adaptability
- Contribution to and ensuring continuity of existing ecological and biodiverse habitats
- Aesthetic value and seasonal diversity
- Environmental tolerance for changing climate conditions and salt tolerance
- Future proofing – sustainable selections for long term viability
- Sizes available on the market
