BRIMBANK Council has knocked back plans to build a telecommunications tower near a church in Sydenham.
Optus proposed a 24-metre monopole and equipment shed at 2A Roseleigh Boulevard. A Salvation Army church is on part of the property.
But the council refused the application, saying the site was not appropriate for a tower and the proposal did not comply with visual amenity guidelines.
Eighteen objections were received, with residents voicing concerns about possible health risks from electromagnetic radiation, visual impact and devaluation of property values.
Responding to claims that many residents were not notified about the plans, the council’s general manager of city development, Stephen Sully, said letters were sent to all property owners and occupiers within a 100-metre radius.
Three signs were placed on the site for 14 days.
He said potential health risks were not a factor in the decision because there was no evidence that mobile phone towers caused problems.
“The applicant has not satisfied council that the telecommunication facility is required in this location,” he said.
Sydenham resident Mary Papaioannou said the decision was a good outcome for the community.
“I was one of three residents to speak at the meeting and I’m really happy our voices were heard,” she said.
Optus is yet to appeal the decision.
