Sixteen trees will go this week in four stages of removal.

Katherine Town Council made the decision at its monthly meeting last week.

"After assessment by a qualified arborist it was determined that 55 trees must be removed to ensure the safety of the facility users and the general public," a council spokeswoman said.

"The trees identified for removal have all incurred damage through termites, a recent corella infestation, as well as a poor wet season which has caused the trees to dry out, further increasing the risk of falling branches and in turn compromising safety."

Mayor Fay Miller said it was with "the greatest of reluctance" the decision was made "however there is no question but to make the safety of our community the number one priority".

At last week's meeting, Mayor Miller said making the decision had made her "stick to her stomach" and two aldermen formally opposed the move.

Council has decided to remove trees in four stages, starting with those located in the highest risk areas.

Stage One will start tomorrow and will see the removal of 16 trees.

The tree removal process will be complimented with a tree replanting program.

Council staff are working closely with appropriately qualified arborists and horticulturist to ensure the replacement trees are appropriate for the area and conditions whilst also restoring the shade coverage provided by the existing trees.

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