IRT strengthens environmental focus in updated plans for proposed Milton seniors’ living community

IRT has refined its plans for a proposed seniors’ living community in Milton to further protect and celebrate the site’s significant trees – including its two small-leaved Fig trees and large turpentine trees. 

The updates respond directly to community feedback received during consultation sessions held in October, where locals highlighted the importance of preserving the site’s mature trees 

The largest of the two small-leaved Fig trees has always been a centrepiece of IRT’s enhanced masterplan, with expert arborists outlining measures to preserve it for future generations. Following the community engagement sessions, IRT engaged an independent Level 5 AQF-qualified arborist to conduct further investigations into the site’s trees and recommended protection zones. 

IRT CEO Ross Gallagher said the findings have led to positive improvements to the plans. 

“The tree protection zone for the significant small-leaved Fig has been expanded to a 34-metre radius – more than double the maximum requirement under Australian Standards,” Mr Gallagher said. 

The updated protection zone extends beyond the canopy dripline and was determined by the independent arborist, based on the tree’s species, age, trunk diameter and health. The assessment also reviewed other trees onsite, including the large turpentine trees and the smaller Fig tree. 

“I’m also pleased to share that, as a result of these further investigations and refinements to our plans, we’ll now be retaining two large turpentine trees,” Mr Gallagher said. 

“One of these trees has already been warmly named ‘Terry the Turpentine’ by local community members, which is a wonderful reflection of the community’s care and connection to it.” 

“We also remain committed to retaining and preserving the second small-leaved Fig tree – as well as other ecologically significant trees and areas of subtropical rainforest – and integrating all of these sensitively into the landscape design to ensure they continue to thrive for years to come.” 

Incorporating these outcomes, IRT has now further refined its masterplan to reflect a stronger landscape-led approach, balancing tree preservation with design, safety and regulatory requirements under the approved consent.  

IRT purchased the land at 267 Princes Highway, Milton in 2021. The site already held council approval for an aged care centre and retirement village, which IRT has since evolved into a more contemporary, sustainable and integrated seniors’ living community. 

“As a community-owned organisation, it’s vital we listen to local voices and act where we can,” Mr Gallagher said. 

“We’re grateful to everyone who shared their feedback, helping us shape a place the Milton community can be proud of,” Mr Gallagher said.  

Where tree removal is unavoidable, IRT remains committed to offset planting and long-term landscape enhancement, including planting of native canopy trees to strengthen the site’s overall canopy coverage and habitat value.  

Early site preparation works have commenced under the approved Development Application, including selective tree and vegetation clearing. With the updated tree investigations now complete, IRT’s tree clearing contractor will finalise remaining works.  

IRT’s revised masterplan will be submitted to Shoalhaven City Council in the coming months as part of the Development Application Modification (Section 4.55 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act).