The question is whether mature trees need to be cut down, or can they be temporarily relocated and transplanted later. Trees along Bras Basah Road were temporarily relocated when Singapore Management University was being built because they were deemed an important feature. Could we have done the same in Cross Street?

Those of us who work in Cross Street wish the trees were still there, especially at lunchtime when the sun beats down mercilessly. No doubt the authorities will replant the area with plants (hopefully trees) when the work is done, but it will take at least 10 to 20 years before the trees mature.

If the cost of relocating trees is an issue, perhaps we can seek corporate or civic sponsorship as this is a green and worthy cause. If companies are willing to pay to hang banners on lamp posts as a form of advertisement, something similar could be done with trees. I am sure the advertising industry can come up with more innovative ideas to entice sponsors. The tax authorities can do their part by treating these sponsorships as tax-deductible.

Another consideration is for the authorities to work with environment groups whenever there is an application to fell trees. Our mindset must change so that, as long as there is one reason to keep a tree - despite many reasons to fell it - all parties will think hard and work around it.

Bernard Teo Lian Hong