DESPITE an almost split community vote on the fate of Gordonvale's historic Norman Park water tower, Cairns Regional Council reached a decision to remove the deteriorating structure yesterday.

The 78-year-old tower, which supplied water to Gordonvale from 1935 to 1953, would have cost about $840,000 to restore, while removal will cost $150,000, to be sourced from the 2013-14 budget.

A survey of the Gordonvale community at the end of last year revealed 51 per cent of residents wanted the tower removed, while 49 per cent wished to see it restored, although under existing regulations the council is not permitted to add anything to the structure.

Division 1 councillor Steve Brain said removal of the tower was the best option to allow for future upgrades to Norman Park, with work on improved facilities and a playground set to start this financial year.

"It was a fairly even response, with a slightlyhigher proportion of respondents supporting removal of the tower, rather than restoration," he said.

"But there is also strong support for improving the park as public space.

"Given the costly estimate for restoration, about $840,000, and the restrictions that would place on further upgrades to the park, removal of the tower is considered to be the most appropriate option."

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