Council urged to okay contentious NBN tower for Deuchar
DESPITE receiving six letters of objections the Southern Downs Regional Council has been recommended to approve a 40m-high telecommunications tower in Deuchar.
The tower is part of the National Broadband Network (NBN), which will enable high-speed broadband to be connected to homes in Deuchar, Ellinthorp and Hendon.
Southern Downs Regional Council senior planning officer Angela O'Mara said the facility would be contained in an area of 84sq m.
"The highest point of the proposed facility will be approximately 42m," she said.
"The compound area will be fenced by a chainwire security screen."
There was a range of matters raised by the objectors to the proposed tower.
Amenity was the biggest concern among them.
"The proposed site will be located on one of the highest points of the area and the 40m tower will be seen above the vegetation in certain locations in the surrounding area contrary to the opinion of NBN Co," wrote one objector.
NBN Co consultant said the height was key to the success of the facility and could not be reduced.
Other issues included the impact on flora and fauna, bushfires and health impacts.
The council will make its decision during Wednesday's general council meeting.
