The 10-metre masts are set to house signal transmitters and double up as street lights on suburban sidewalks in the effort to improve telecommunications in suburban areas by filling up gaps in the network. This was part of a scheme arranged between City Power and several other cellphone and telecommunications companies several years ago.
A lack of consultation with ward councillors and residents has since caused resistance to the project, however, causing City Power to postpone the rollout.
Ward 94 councillor John Mendelsohn stated that the project has been extensively canvassed by the Lonehill Residents’ Association and is widely supported by Lonehill residents.
“I have not received any objections from any residents,” said Mendelsohn. “I believe that this project will greatly enhance telecommunications in the areas where the rollout takes place. So, in the absence of any objections or complaints directly to me, I have signed off on the project.”
Residents in Sunninghill feel different, however. In an objection sent to Ward 93 councillor, Annette Deppe, a resident stated that they strongly protest the rollout of these masts. The resident states in their argument that the primary concern is electromagnetic radiation which these masts could possibly emit.
Deppe is standing by her community and is firmly against the rollout. She believes that the masts will not improve telecommunication infrastructure in her ward.
“I have numerous objectors in my ward,” Deppe added. “I have sent all documents to the applicant [telecommunications company] for their attention.”
Director of the Sunninghill Gardens Homeowners’ Association, Linda Geldenhuys, said she has received more than 30 objections from residents in the area, all passionately against the masts.
“Although studies regarding radiation have been inconclusive to date, many other countries do not allow transmitters like these near schools and hospitals,” said Geldenhuys. “If these towers have no negative health effects, why are they kept away?”
Not all councillors’ views are that polarised though, as Chris Santana, Ward 115 councillor, said there has not been any formal communication made available to residents in his ward, therefore he cannot comment on whether they are for or against it.
“I will not approve any project unless proof is provided of consultation with the affected residents,” Santana concluded.
What is cellphone signal coverage like in your area and would you agree to have a signal booster in your street? Let us know by sending an e-mail to fourwaysr@caxton.co.za
