Proposed cell antenna angers Northway residents

LOCAL residents are up in arms about a plan to erect a three meter high antenna on a residential property in Durban North. The idea for the antenna has been put forward by cell phone network giant, MTN. The proposal has raised major health concerns for residents and a school which falls into its radius. It’s believed the antenna is the first of many to be placed in and around the area.

Residents on Kenneth Kaunda Road (Northway) held a meeting last week to discuss their grievances about the proposed plan.

Joanne Hathrill, who led the meeting, said residents have voiced overwhelming opposition to the antenna which would be situated on the roof of a residential property.

“Nobody wants it. We feel it is a huge health issue, especially as it is so close to other residents’ homes and Chelsea Preparatory School. We are also concerned about the value of our properties, which will decrease. All the residents agreed nobody would buy a house so close to an antenna or mast,” she said.

Her sentiments were echoed by ward councillor Shaun Ryley who said the proposal was contentious.

“There’s not enough evidence to suggest there is not a health risk by erecting a cell antenna. MTN have said the proposed antenna’s emissions are significantly lower than the international health standards percentages. I get my mandate from the residents and I encourage public participation in this issue to find an amicable solution,” Ryley said.

In November last year, a MTN cellphone mast was given the go ahead as Somerset Park residents showed overwhelming support due to low connectivity in the area.