Tower given go-ahead

A controversial new 30m Optus telecoms tower was given the go-ahead by the Town of Port Hedland at its recent meeting.

The tower will be located in the West End at the Corner of McKay and Hardie Street, on Lot 5787.

The application was previously rejected in December 2010 at Lot 59 on McKay Street.

The town received 16 submissions, with the tower’s aesthetic look and possible health impact cited as main causes for concern.

The new location is zoned for drainage primarily, with approved industrial use. Mayor Kelly Howlett insisted the new location for the tower was ideal for the structure.

“I think it’s an appropriate location. If you have a look on the other side of Wilson Street, you’ve got fuel tanks and a lot of large structures already in the vicinity,” she said.

“There were a number of public comments and objections received regarding its previously proposed location. Council took that onboard when it made its rejection.”

Previous health concerns were also raised, about the tower’s electromagnetic energy (EME) exposure levels.

Aureon, who made the application on behalf of Optus, has said the maximum EME levels produced by the tower would be less than 1 per cent of the maximum public exposure limit.

An Optus spokesperson confirmed the construction of the new tower would boost 3G mobile coverage for Hedland customers.

“Optus is excited to bring improved coverage to our customers in the Port Hedland region and we are continually looking at ways to increase choice and bring higher quality services to our customers,” the spokesperson said.

Construction of the tower is expected to start within the next 12 months.