The decision not to remove the trees was the result of an internal review by EnergyAustralia’s environmental and engineering specialists.

EnergyAustralia’s manager for the Hunter, David Barr, said the review showed the trees could be managed, to keep them clear of the power lines.

Former Scone Landcare president Ken England organised the planting of the trees and said he was relieved that they would not be removed.

“I think the community is grateful that Energy-Australia is now going to do what it originally said it would do,” Mr England said.

Olympic torch relay runner and Lions Club member Jim Clark was one of the many volunteers who helped plant the trees.

“We are very happy they are not going to take them out,” Mr Clark said.

“Not only the Lions Club, but a lot of people worked planting the trees,” he said.

“They are an asset to the town.”

Mr Clark said after The Scone Advocate published a story about plans to remove the trees on Thursday, February 4, people came forward and offered their support to save them.

The Scone Lions Club was due to meet last night to discuss the issue and form a plant to have them saved.

Mr Barr from EnergyAustralia said it was clear that the trees which include eucalypts, casuarinas and river redgums are an important symbol; and are highly valued by the community.

“However, we know that over the next 10 years they will start growing into power lines,” he said.

Mr Barr said about 60 per cent of interruptions across the electricity network are caused by environmental factors such as trees coming into contact with power lines.

“If allowed to grow unchecked, these trees will become a public safety and bushfire risk,” he said.

“The review from our expert staff showed the only way to both minimise these risks and avoid removing them was to develop a regular program of tree trimming.”