Urban Trees and Infrastructure in Greater Sydney

Urban Trees and Infrastructure in Greater Sydney: Planning, Design, Management and Resilience for a Growing Metropolis explores the complex relationship between trees, urban development and public infrastructure across one of Australia’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions.

The book examines how urban trees can be successfully planned, designed, established and managed alongside roads, footpaths, buildings, utilities, drainage systems, transport corridors and other essential infrastructure. It recognises trees as critical living infrastructure, providing shade, cooling, biodiversity, stormwater management, carbon storage, landscape character and improved community wellbeing.

Drawing together principles of arboriculture, urban forestry, engineering, planning and landscape design, the book considers tree selection, soil and root-zone requirements, infrastructure conflicts, tree protection during development, risk management, maintenance and long-term urban forest resilience.

Particular attention is given to the challenges facing Greater Sydney, including population growth, urban intensification, climate change, limited soil volumes, ageing infrastructure and the need to protect established tree canopy while accommodating development.

The central message is that successful cities should not treat trees and infrastructure as competing assets. Through informed planning, appropriate design, professional management and collaboration, both can coexist.

Ultimately, the book presents a practical framework for creating a Greater Sydney that is sustainable, resilient, liveable and connected.