The Antiquities & Monuments Office today issued an advisory letter to Maryknoll Convent School warning it must strictly comply with regulations when conducting tree and drainage works within its monument boundary.

The school was declared a monument in 2008. The law requires works within the grounds to comply with the permit granted by Secretary for Development.

The school removed 18 trees due to pest and safety concerns in December 2008, planted seven trees last December and conducted drainage works in January.

It did not submit plans to the Antiquities & Monuments Office or notify it of the start and estimated completion dates of the works in advance, as required under the permit.

The works damaged the roots of a Norfolk Island pine tree on campus and the school removed it in February.

It has been told to implement improvement measures, including enhancing communications with its works agents and monitoring of works. The office will ensure the school makes the required upgrades.

Considering the works are part of the school's care for its environment and public safety, and they did not damage the monument buildings, the Department of Justice decided not to prosecute it.

The Commissioner for Heritage's Office and the Development Bureau will enhance liaison with the office and promote tree preservation within monument boundaries. The office will also be alert to the impact of works conducted within monument boundaries on trees.