Bakery Park tree removal to be reviewed

Published on 06 September 2022

Council has received a request to review the decision to remove a peppercorn tree in Bakery Park.

This tree is a of great value to the community, both historically and as a centerpiece of the park today. It was planted in the 1870s by the Clark family who for many years ran the bakehouse that gave the park its name.

Council previously sought advice from an arborist on the health of the tree after being approached by a member of the local community about a large crack in its trunk.

The arborist’s report showed that the tree is in danger of failing and poses a risk to community safety. It found that the tree branches would need to be propped up with up steel supports if it is to remain in place.

In carefully considering this option, Council took into account the significant size and cost of these supports and the way they could detract from the ambience of the park. There is also no guarantee this approach would work, meaning the tree could continue to pose a safety risk to the community.

For these reasons it was decided that the best course of action is to remove the tree and plant an advanced peppercorn to reflect the history of the original bakehouse.

The Council has received further feedback from the community since that decision was announced in August and has decided to revisit the issue.

Members of the community are invited to discuss the future of the tree with Councillors and Council staff at the Councillor Cuppa and Chat at Amphitheatre Hall on September 13 at 5pm.