ARBORISTS have helped City of Newcastle keep a century-old fig tree in Hamilton safe from the axe.
The council has developed a plan for the Port Jackson fig in Gregson Park involving a cable system in the tree's canopy, with a small fence and garden due to be built under the tree's drip line.
The works follow a recent branch break, an incident that would normally spell the end for the tree, and are expected to buy it an extra 20 years.
Pruning will start in the coming days, and a successional tree will be planted nearby. Work is due for completion in September.
Councillor Carol Duncan said it was an example of preserving natural heritage and historic flora and fauna in Newcastle.
"Gregson Park has a rich history as one of Newcastle's most loved parks, with some trees dating back to the late 19th century," Councillor Duncan said.
"Preserving Gregson Park's trees is important because they not only hold sentimental value to us, they also provide habitat for native wildlife such as the threatened grey-headed flying fox, which is the case with this tree."
The council is developing a master plan for the Hamilton park.
The plan follows the council's appeal to halt planned works at Birdwood Park to preserve trees.
