Dungog Waste Management Facility is open to the public but with access limited to 4WD vehicles only due to the recent rain. Conditions will continue to be monitored, and updates provided as they are available.
Following the recent community information session on the proposed tree works at Tucker Park, Paterson, Council has prepared a list of frequently asked questions to help provide further information about the project, the assessment findings and the proposed next steps.
We understand the importance of Tucker Park to the community and recognise there is strong interest in the future of the site. These FAQs have been developed to help answer some of the common questions raised and provide clear, accessible information about the project and upcoming works.
Council commissioned an independent Tree Risk Assessment and Management Plan following increasing concerns about falling branches, tree decline and long-term sustainability of the Cottonwood trees within John Tucker Park.
The assessment identified that a number of trees have been significantly impacted by drought conditions, age-related decline and structural defects, which increase the risk of branch or tree failure.
Council has a responsibility to manage public safety risks within public spaces while also preserving the park’s important character and amenity where possible.
No. The independent assessment specifically states that mass removal is NOT recommended.
Of the 129 trees assessed:
The majority of trees within the park will remain.
Some trees were identified as having serious structural defects including:
These issues increase the likelihood of branch or tree failure, particularly during storms or strong wind events.
The assessment identified 24 trees that present an unacceptable risk to public safety and are recommended for removal.
The report found the trees were significantly impacted by the 2019–2020 drought period.
While many trees recovered, the drought caused:
The report also notes that many trees are reaching an age where decline becomes more common.
Stage 1 focuses on immediate public safety works and short-term tree management.
This stage includes:
These works are intended to reduce immediate risks to park users, playground visitors, pedestrians and parked vehicles.
Council is currently progressing contractor engagement processes. Once a contractor is appointed, Stage 1 works are expected to commence within the next few weeks.
Council will notify the community prior to works commencing and will aim to minimise disruption to park users wherever possible.
Stage 2 is the long-term planning and renewal phase for John Tucker Park.
This stage will involve Council engaging a qualified landscape designer through Council’s procurement processes to develop a master plan for the entire site.
The master plan is expected to consider:
The report recommends gradual replacement of trees over a 10–15 year period together with improved landscape planning and species diversity.
Council understands the strong community attachment to the Cottonwood plantation and the park’s unique character.
The intention is not to remove the identity of the park, but to:
Any long-term redesign or replacement planting will consider the character and heritage of the area.
Yes.
Council is committed to further community consultation as part of the Stage 2 master planning process.
Community consultation will occur following engagement of a landscape designer and during development of the master plan for the site.
Future consultation will help inform:
Community feedback will play an important role in shaping the future of John Tucker Park.
No. At this stage, Council is addressing immediate public safety risks identified in the independent assessment.
The long-term master plan and future landscape design have not yet been determined and will be developed through professional design input and future community engagement.
The majority of John Tucker Park remains open to the public. However, the plantation area has been temporarily fenced off while the assessment and recommended tree management works are undertaken. The fencing will be removed once the works are completed.
Council will implement the recommended safety measures, including pruning and the removal of identified high-risk trees, to help manage potential risks within the park.
As with any treed public space, visitors should continue to exercise caution during storms and high wind events.
Council is committed to:
Council’s goal is to balance safety, environmental sustainability and community expectations while ensuring the park remains a valued destination for future generations.
The independent Tree Risk Assessment and Management Plan prepared by Anderson Environment & Planning contains detailed findings, tree assessments and management recommendations and can be found below.
5890-Tree-Risk-Assessment-Tucker-Park-Paterson-01-26-03-04.pdf(PDF, 9MB)