It includes independent reports that further investigate structural and engineering impacts of the large trees and their root systems, which tree felling opposers say have been lacking until now.
Council’s decision to remove the trees has so-far been based on the findings of two arborist reports.
But neighbouring property owner and SHADE Trees community group member Josephine Duffy said she has commissioned a report of her own, which contradicts some of the findings.
Ms Duffy was one of two community members to address the council before Tuesday’s meeting, and appeal for the trees to be retained or for more evidence to support council’s decision.
The other speaker was fellow SHADE member Roseanne Farrant, who also presented a petition of more than 1000 signatures.
Based on their presentations, community discussions over the past two weeks and the information presented to them, not one councillor felt they could support the removal of the trees at this stage.
An alternate motion to do further studies and bring the matter back to council was unanimously supported.
Council said this commitment to provide a detailed and independent investigation would ensure that any future action is based on the most informed and balanced information available.
Over a number of years, council has received consistent feedback from adjacent landholders regarding the trees.
Concerns have included root damage to commercial structures, and blocked roof drainage from leaf litter, which has resulted in significant water damage in one case.
Council’s initial arborist report was completed in 2017, but another was completed in 2024 after community feedback when a decision to remove the trees was first flagged last year.
Both of council’s reports recommended the removal and replacement of the trees with a more suitable species with a less invasive root system.
A third report, submitted by SHADE in early 2025, proposed alternative management options to retain the trees.
Following this, council staff undertook further inspections of the affected properties and engaged directly with adjacent landholders.
These assessments found minimal current structural damage to buildings, though root activity beneath structures was evident.
The main concerns remain drainage and stormwater impacts, along with ongoing damage to council infrastructure such as footpaths, kerbs, and gutters.
Mayor Ashley Hall said while council had initially resolved to proceed with the removal based on expert advice and stakeholder consultation, the recent petition and renewed community engagement have prompted a decision to pause the works.
“Council is committed to taking a balanced and evidence-based approach,” he said.
“We understand the value our community places on mature trees, and we also have a duty to protect public and private infrastructure.
“This pause reflects our commitment to achieving the best outcome for everyone involved.
“We are also keen to work collaboratively with SHADE Deniliquin to explore viable options and reach a solution that serves the best interests of the broader community and affected property owners.”
Council will continue to keep the community informed as the independent investigation progresses.
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