But they can see over the fence as they fall

Risk management is always an issue (in this case a "safety, privacy and liability issue") but boy this is taking it a bit far, no?

THE oldest is 14, the youngest only four. But that hasn't stopped a group of neighbourhood friends from taking on the Brisbane City Council.

After more than 18 months working on their dream four-level treehouse, the group of more than a dozen Newmarket children are fighting to keep council from tearing down their project.

"It's our clubhouse. We made it from scratch," said one child, 6, whose parent did not want them to be named.

"We all did it together."

Chairman of City Business and Local Asset Services David McLachlan said the structure, which is built on council land in Spencer Park, is a "safety, privacy and liability issue". "The top platform is some 4m off the ground," Cr McLachlan said.

"This is close to a property and the platform is built so they can overlook a neighbour's property, so there is a privacy issue."

More than 18 children under the age of 14 live in Market St and the treehouse has become the centre of street parties, birthdays and other get-togethers.

"What kind of over-regulated society do we live in, when kids can't play in their tree house?" asked Nicholas Edwards, 12. "Mum didn't tell me to say that."

Mum Lisa Palu said the treehouse had brought families together.

"All the dads met each other through it and helped the kids with the construction," she said. "Liability is a serious issue for council. I know that. But what we want is the opportunity to meet with council. Come and talk to us so the children understand."

Councillor for Central Ward David Hinchliffe said the structure should stay.

The treehouse is due to be torn down by the end of the week.