Wattle Range Council is seeking feedback on a proposal to remove the avenue of Cyprus trees in the Penola parkland located north of Robe Road (Clarke Street).

The Department of Transport and Infrastructure planted a row of Cyprus trees on the eastern boundary of the parkland a number of years ago.

A council spokesperson said there was a significant amount of evidence that “the trees are approaching end of life”.

“These trees are posing potential public safety risks to road users besides causing issues to the council in maintaining the road and the drainage especially after inclement weather,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said it was recommended that all the trees be removed as that would significantly reduce the risk of old and poor condition trees dropping limbs or falling onto nearby residences or vehicles, improve visibility of the parkland, increase longevity of the impending new assets proposed for the parkland and ensure public safety.

“The Cyprus trees proposed for removal are neither regulated, nor significant under the Native Vegetation Act 1991 or the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Act 2016,” the spokesperson said.

“The Department of Transport and Infrastructure supports the removal of the Cyprus trees and council is not proposing to remove any other trees in the parkland.

“The redevelopment of this parkland forms a part of the Coonawarra Rail Trail project. There are plans to provide car parking, bike racks, toilets, seating, landscaping, lighting and signage associated with the trail on this site.”

In accordance with Council’s public consultation policy, the public is invited to comment on the proposed removal of the trees.

Written submissions stating the full name, address and contact details of the person responding and marked ‘Penola Parkland Tree Removal’ can be posted to PO Box 27, Millicent SA 5280, emailed to council@wattlerange.sa.gov.au or left at any of council’s offices by noon on February 21.