yesterday when local arborist Warwick Leahy of Nioka Tree Surgery removed the remains of the stump of the iconic

peppercorn tree.

The 140-year-old tree, which was known locally as the “Tree of knowledge”, fell in strong winds in January.

Since the tree’s demise, locals have expressed many ideas as to what to do with the area, from leaving the stump intact as a memorial, planting another tree or erecting a shade structure.

During a January Cootamundra Shire Council meeting councillors, led by mayor Paul Braybrooks, expressed their interest in a shade structure over the area.

Council has since decided to plant another well-established tree in the garden bed.

According to Council Manager of Facilities and Services Barry Turner, repair work will be carried out in the plaza where damage was caused by the tree.

In order to give a new tree the greatest chance of growing into another town icon, Council will improve water accessibility to the garden bed.

While a final decision has not been made as to what type of tree will be planted, Mr Turner said top of the consideration list is the ginkgo tree due to its deciduous nature and long life span.

Mr Turner said a shade structure was eventually decided against because Council wanted something much more long term in the plaza.

He is hopeful redevelopment work will be completed and a new tree planted by Christmas.

Some locals have expressed interest in the creation of a memorial plaque at the site of the old peppercorn tree detailing its

history.

Mr Turner said Council considers this a good idea, however in the interest of

consistency would like to see any plaque created as one of the many proposed by the Beach Volleyball Committee to be placed throughout town at historically relevant sites.