Great Lakes Council has given 60-year-old coral trees on the riverfront in Tea Gardens a reprieve following protests by locals.

Six trees on Marine Drive were condemned as part of a road resurfacing and riverfront beautification scheme.

Deputy Mayor and local councillor Len Roberts said the coral trees were a menace, noxious and not appropriate to the area.

Council wanted to replace them with more suitable species, but some local residents and business owners were angered by the proposal, saying the trees provided welcome shade for people enjoying the waterfront.

When council officers arrived on the morning of Wednesday 19 November, they were met by protesters who refused to let them axe the trees.

Council subsequently agreed to leave the trees until after the summer holiday season.