As part of Council’s recent arborist assessment program, ten (10) trees have been identified as having critical structural and health defects that pose an unacceptable risk to public safety.
These trees have been independently assessed by a qualified arborist. In each case, the condition of the tree has been determined to be beyond what can be managed through pruning or other maintenance practices.
Identified Trees
The following trees have been classified as critical and recommended for immediate removal.
Tree Numbers: 38, 55, 65, 70, 98, 106, 152, 168, 175, 185
Locations of these trees:
- ID 038 – on the northern side of Casino Road, 35m west of East Street intersection.
- ID 055 – on southern side of Casino Road, 10m east and opposite power pole 19.
- ID 065 – on northern side of Casino Road, 3m east of entrance to property number 14 Casino Road.
- ID 070 – on southern side of Casino Road, 18m east of entrance to property number 27 Casino Road.
- ID 098 – on southern side of Casino Road, 138m west of Bellevue Road intersection.
- ID 106 – on northern side of Casino Road, 135m east of 50km speed zone sign.
- ID 152 on western side of Logan Street, outside 170 Logan Street.
- ID 168 on western side of Logan Street, outside 190 Logan Street.
- ID 175 on southern side of Cowper Street intersection, 120 west of Pelham Street intersection.
- ID 185 on southern side of Cowper Street intersection Street, 10m east and opposite power pole 6047.
See full details for each tree in the assessment reports provided by the arborist. Example photos of critical trees provided above and in assessment reports for your reference.
What does “critical” mean?
A tree classified as critical has been assessed as having significant structural and/or health defects that may include:
- Advanced internal decay or fungal infection
- Large trunk cavities or hollows
- Compromised root structure or stability
- A high likelihood of failure (e.g. limb drop or tree collapse)
In these cases, the risk to people, property and infrastructure cannot be adequately reduced through standard tree management practices.
Why can’t these trees be retained?
Council’s approach is to retain trees wherever it is safe and practical to do so. However, for the trees listed above:
- Structural integrity has been compromised
- The condition is advanced and irreversible
- Pruning or treatment would not sufficiently reduce risk
For these reasons, removal has been identified as the only safe and responsible option.
What happens next?
Council will proceed with the removal of these trees to ensure public safety. Where suitable, replacement planting will be undertaken using the same or similar species, with consideration given to:
- Maintaining the character of local streetscapes
- Preserving Tenterfield’s seasonal canopy (including autumn colour)
- Supporting long-term tree health and resilience
Balancing safety and our leafy character
Council acknowledges the significant value of Tenterfield’s trees and understands the important contribution they make to the town’s character for both our community and visitors.
The removal of any tree is not taken lightly, however these actions are necessary to protect community safety.
At the same time, Council remains committed to maintaining and enhancing the town’s canopy for future generations through planned replanting and ongoing tree management.
