Acorn-dropping tree “accident waiting to happen” says Semaphore Park residents

Semaphore Park residents are furious a tree they say is an “accident waiting to happen” will not be removed by Charles Sturt council.

Acorns at the base of an oak tree at Semaphore Park that local residents compare to walking over marbles. Pic: Paula Thompson

Semaphore Park residents have pleaded with Charles Sturt Council to remove a tree they say is an “accident waiting to happen”.

At Charles Sturt’s Asset Management Committee meeting this week, three deputations were made, calling for the tree, located on Fourth Ave, to be removed.

Resident Trevor Blaylock said the acorns dropped by the Holm Oak tree seriously impeded his mobility.

“Going out on my gofer, it’s like going out over a bed of marbles,” he said.

Mr Blaylock said he was also concerned for his grandchildren’s safety due to the tripping hazard the acorns presented.

“I’m an environmentally friendly person and support the propagation of trees and this oak tree is very healthy, which is shown by the thousands of acorns it drops. But I don’t believe this tree is suited to this urban environment,” he said.

Resident Mary Stewart said she believed the acorns presented a risk to public safety.

“I often see walkers going past my property, walking on the road to avoid to stepping on the acorns,” she said.

“Trees are a vital part of our environment – the more the merrier – but this specific tree and it’s marble-like acorns are not suited to the area.

A tree that Semaphore Park residents are begging to have removed. Pic: Paula Thompson

Landlord Bert Lindop said the removal of the tree would stop the risk of walkers and residents falling over and hurting themselves.

“I’m trying to look after my tenants as well as the general public,” he said.

Council received an arborist report saying “the tree is free of significant structural flaws and subsequently was assessed as not posing an unacceptable risk to personal safety or to

property.”

At this week’s meeting, council voted to retain the tree and to schedule additional maintenance to address the potential risks.

Mr Lindop was unhappy with the decision and intends to attend the next full meeting of council with a petition for the tree’s removal.