An environment NGO has welcomed the planning authority’s decision not to permit the uprooting of ficus trees at Independence Square in Victoria.

Flimkien Għal Ambjent Ahjar said the decision was made by a Mepa representative in court during the hearing of a case instituted by the NGO seeking a court order to stop the uprooting.

Victoria council had intended to uproot the ficus trees and replace them with shrubs in planters, the FAA explained.

“FAA’s legal step was intended to signal that it is prepared to take strong action to prevent further destruction of trees. These trees are over 70 years old and therefore supposedly protected by law,” the NGO said.

To encourage the planting and care of trees, FAA is organising a seminar on care of trees in the community along with the President’s Hub for Ethno botanical Research.

The seminar is to be presented by Ian Lansely, a renowned consultant arborist. Antoine Gatt, a professional landscape architect and lecturer, will talk about the importance of green infrastructure especially in urban environments.

The seminar will be held at San Anton Palace, Attard on Wednesday at 6.30pm. Another seminar will be held on Thursday at 5pm at the Government Experimental Farm, Mġarr Road, Xewkija. To register go to www.faa.org.mt.