RESIDENTS have expressed their shock and disgust at the obliteration of one of Tamworth’s most appealing streetscapes.
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Napier St in East Tamworth has long been famed for its majestic beauty thanks in large part to an array of silky oak and jacaranda trees.
But Tamworth Regional Council’s decision to shear 10 silky oaks on the block between Brisbane and Fitzroy streets has people fuming.
That the council seemingly did not consult with the street’s residents before embarking on the logging activities has only added to the distress of residents.
“It’s disgusting,” East Tamworth resident Colleen McCulloch said. “A number of people that I’ve spoken to aren’t happy as well.
“They’re gone now and there’s nothing that can be done about it, but the residents should have been consulted.”
Tamworth councillor Juanita Wilson was furious when she raised the issue at the council meeting on Tuesday night.
She said the street now looked “barren” and “revolting” and questioned why councillors and residents had not been informed of their pending removal.
“I’m sorry, I’ve actually lost a lot of confidence in (the horticulture) department and I need to have it restored,” she said.
“I’d like a workshop to take place to establish a protocol for the removal and replacement of street trees within TRC.”
But not everyone in Napier St is upset, with one resident – who did not wish to be named – delighted to see the trees removed.
“They were a danger to the public,” the resident said. “They had white ants in them and, with the children’s playground so close, it was a concern.”
The Leader approached council seeking an explanation for why the trees were removed, but has yet to receive a response.
