Public safety was behind the sudden felling of a commemorative tree in Temuka recently.
The tree, located by Fox St, was planted in 2001 to commemorate the year of the volunteer.
On the plaque, it noted the service to the Temuka community by the Temuka Volunteer Fire Brigade since 1874.
While the tree was purchased by the fire brigade, as of Tuesday this week, they had not been informed of the reason for its removal.
Chief Fire Officer Murray Blogg said, two weeks after the tree had been cut down, ‘‘I haven’t been notified’’.
CFO Blogg said there were reports from members of the public that the tree had been removed as it had sustained a broken branch from the wind.
As no-one had called, he had not been offered a replacement tree, but he remained hopeful.
‘‘It would be nice, wouldn’t it?’’
Timaru District Council general manager assets and infrastructure Andrew Dixon said the tree was felled on October 31 due to damage in high winds, which included losing a significant limb and split down the centre, creating structural issues.
‘‘Due to the increased risk to public safety and proximity to the popular Taumatakahu shared track, the tree was removed immediately.
‘‘To complete the removal, council will grind the tree stump and this will provide the opportunity for a replacement tree. This is likely to be discussed with the fire brigade closer to an appropriate planting time.’’
