Dead Norfolk pine to be replaced

Gosford Council is expected to meet with members of the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Association over the removal of an iconic Norfolk pine tree at Wagstaffe Point.

Council resolved at its meeting on July 6, to assist the local community group in removing the tree and locating a suitable mature species for its replacement.

The issue was raised through a notice of motion by Greens Cr Terri Latella.

Council will assist in the removal of the pine and replanting of a new tree and any roadworks associated with any such works, according to a council report.

"The iconic Norfolk Pine tree which has graced Wagstaffe Point for many years is now all but dead," the report stated.

"The species of pine is sensitive to disturbance and it has been suggested by horticulturalists that the recent drainage works may have been causal to its health.

"The drainage works were carried out by council in 2009.

"As the health of the existing tree came at a consequence of such disturbance, a request has been made from the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Association that Council assist with the replacement of the tree and associated works.

"The Association is currently looking at locating a replacement species which is of a suitable maturity and has been fruitful in locating such a replacement tree."

Council and the Association are expected to meet on July 19.

Council agenda NM.14, 6 Jul 2010