More than 3.5 million plants, trees, shrubs and groundcovers were planted along the 45km roadway and bypasses.
All plants used on EastLink were chosen based on their visual impact, their ability to provide habitat for local flora and fauna and their ability to withstand roadside conditions.
The landscaping is largely comprised of indigenous plants which provide a habitat and food source for local fauna. These plants also have the benefit of being drought tolerant and requiring minimal watering.
River red gums are planted along the length of the corridor, particularly the southern end of EastLink. These trees have a lifespan of between 400 and 600 years and provide a significant visual and environmental benefit.
Key features of the EastLink landscaping include:
- Around 500,000 trees to help absorb greenhouse gases emitted from motor vehicles;
- Up to 750,000 wetland and waterway plantings to help create 60 wetlands and strengthen realigned waterways;
- Around 200,000 cubic metres of mulch across approximately 1.8 million square metres of garden beds to protect and nurture plantings; and
- More than 400,000 plants within the EastLink-Monash interchange alone, the biggest and busiest freeway interchange in Victoria.
More information:
(03) 8562 6800 or contact@seita.com.au