Steamroller Park playground in Stirling shut closed as council removes massive dangerous split tree

One of the Adelaide Hills’ most popular playgrounds has been closed over fears a large oak tree could come crashing down.

The Adelaide Hills Council will tear down a large tree over concerns for safety at a busy playground. Picture: Adelaide Hills Council

One of the Hills’ most popular playgrounds has been urgently shut down over concerns a massive tree could come crashing down.

Steamroller Park in Stirling is closed until 5pm on Friday, as Adelaide Hills Council tears down a large pin oak tree in the southwestern corner of the playground.

The Adelaide Hills Council said a routine tree inspection had identified “significant structural flaws” within the tree’s branches and a large split in the tree’s main stem.

The carpark at Steamroller Park, in Stirling.

“Due to the size and configuration of this large split, no alternative management options are available in this instance to stabiles and retain the tree,” council senior arborist Damian Brennan said.

“Complete tree removal is required to manage the associated risks to the public.”

The busy playground and carparking area surrounding the tree has been closed off to the public and will not be reopened until the tree has been completely removed.

The council has apologised for any inconvenience to Stirling locals over the works.