The Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) has plans to upgrade and widen a section of Vale Road and the well-known elm tree tunnel at the northern entrance to the village may need to be removed.

The RMS contacted the Perthville Neighbourhood Group to advise roadworks were being planned and that two public information sessions had been organised this week.

Group member and Georges Plains resident Amanda Peterson said the RMS letter stated the trees were in the way of planned roadworks.

“All we’ve really been told is they plan to upgrade Vale Road in Perthville,” she said.

“They want it to be a smoother and widen road to improve safety and reduce maintenance.”

Ms Peterson said while this section of road had been dangerous, the recent speed limit drop from 100km/h to 80km/h addressed the issue.

She said the tree tunnel was a Perthville icon and many people in the community do not want it to be removed.

“I'm keen to see what the plans are as I do believe the road needs upgrading, it would just be a shame to lose the trees,” Ms Peterson said.

Road safety expert and Perthville resident Matt Irvine said the road was a major truck route to Goulburn and it was vital that it was maintained adequately.

“The RMS have concerns that if they rebuild the road under the stated requirements that work is likely to do damage to the [tree] roots,” he said. “The challenge is if you don’t do anything about it is it’ll fall apart and the road does need repairs.”

Mr Irvine asked whether a new road to bypass the trees would be feasible.

However, as a Perthville resident he understood the community’s desire to keep the tree tunnel.

“That archway at autumn is beautiful, it’s the iconic view. Like other locals I’m very attached to it,” he said.

“To retain them could add huge margins to the cost. It’s not an easy one.”

The RMS sessions are on at Perthville Hall on Wednesday 10am-2pm and Thursday 4-7pm.