Telecommunications provider TPG has apologised for the destruction of two majestic Norfolk Island pine trees that stood near the entrance to the Anzac Memorial Walk at The Hill.
TPG's subcontractors recently severed the roots of the 14-metre tall trees while laying telecommunications cable from High Street to the walkway.
Within hours, a City of Newcastle arborist determined the trees had been mortally wounded and were a risk of collapsing in a strong wind.
The tops of the trees were removed that evening to prevent them toppling.
In response to a deluge of calls about the tree's destruction, the council attached signs to their stumps explaining it was not responsible for the damage.
"We are really sad to lose them," Dannielle Lilleyman who lives near the trees said.
"What's really disappointing is that no one had any forethought about the need to put the cables in when they dug up the area a few years ago."
Friends of King Edward Park spokesman John Lewer said he was shocked at the loss of the landmark trees.
"Understandably the community is very upset. Mature trees are precious assets needing to be nurtured and protected," Dr Lewer said.
"A full investigation is required to identify how such destruction could occur and the community needs to know how the damage will be rectified.
"The case also reinforces the need for a Conservation Management Plan to be developed for King Edward Park and its environs".
The Sydney-based contractor did not consult with the council before it cut through the tree roots.
A TPG spokesman said it was disappointed its contractor, in contravention of requirements, damaged the trees.
"TPG contractors are required to comply with local guidelines issued by council in connection with fibre installation works and council is always notified about scope of works," he said.
"We will continue to work with the council as may be required."
A City of Newcastle spokesman said it was concerning the works had not been done in accordance with the plans submitted to council.
"We will be providing documentation to TPG regarding the contractor's failure to allow time for review and approvals to be undertaken before works commenced," he said.
"The City will seek to recover the costs associated with investigations we carried out to determine the extent of damage to the trees, as well as for their removal and replacement, and establishment of two new trees."
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