The banks of the Murray River have been exposed with the removal of trees and foliage in front of Oddies Creek Park in Albury

The willows in Albury's Oddies Creek Park have been felled over the past week and a bit in a revamp aimed at bolstering the health of the river.

The trees overhanging the river downstream of the Union Bridge had long been a favourite spot for teens to launch themselves into the river.

Makeshift rope swings were sometimes attached to branches, with injuries incurred by some leaping in.

The removal of the trees follows a high fence being installed on the sides of the Union Bridge in 2013 to prevent people jumping into the river.

Albury Council will replace the willows and privet with native plants.

Councillor Amanda Cohn said at the launch of the work last month that it was meant to bring "this part of the river to something closer to its natural state, with all the benefits that will bring to people and wildlife".

Work is due to be completed by the end of this month.