Tree Canopy Cover Prioritisation

Image 7: Priority areas for increased canopy cover. Source: Both Council held and DELWP dataset, 2021.

Using the baseline data such as canopy cover, urban heat, heat vulnerability, and highlighting areas where the community are likely to be more exposed to heat due to pedestrian activity such as around schools, parks, playgrounds, kinders and libraries, we have developed a network of streets and open spaces that should be prioritised for increased tree canopy cover. Appendix 1 includes the criteria for inclusion as a priority.

Areas in most need are coloured in red, orange, and yellow. This includes Altona Meadows, Laverton, Seabrook, and parts of Altona North. Whilst Williamstown scores low on priority, there are still ample opportunities to improve canopy cover within streets and parks there.

This prioritisation framework will be used to inform our tree planting program each year, ensuring that we continue to target the planting of shade in areas of need.