ANOTHER proposed cell tower has earned the ire of local residents. Dozens of Glenhills residents recently banded together to object to the erection of a Telkom tower on Casuarina Circle.
Graham Southgate, a resident leading the objection, said he felt that the telecommunications provider was using ‘under-handed’ methods to get the proposal approved.
“Only two out of a community of 31 homeowners have officially been informed of the proposed tower. How is fair public debate or participation suppose to take place if this is the case?” he asked.
He said preliminary objections had, however, already been submitted on behalf of 26 homeowners in the vicinity.
Community concerns
What’s more, Southgate said the property on which the tower was set to be erected seemed dangerous and inadequate.
“The property has a retaining wall that does not seem to be structurally sound or correct to host a tower of that size. What if it was to collapse onto one of the neighboring properties?” he said.
“These are our homes, our properties and our families. The waves that would be emitted by this tower would be the equivalent to sitting in front of an open microwave. There are several other towers in the area. How many do they really need?” he added.
George and Michelle Carpenter, who have three children, echoed Southgate’s sentiments, saying, that they wanted to build their lives in a safe and healthy community.
“The health concerns are definitely a factor. Why would anyone want this tower in his or her community and risk getting sick? It is also an eyesore,” added 60-year-old Frik Calitz.
Lisa Nicholas said the devaluation of properties by 40 to 50 per cent was also a major concern for her and her neighbours.
War councillor responds
Ward councillor, Heinz de Boer, said he agreed with the residents’ concerns regarding the seemingly unsound retaining wall and would follow up to ensure that the site was inspected by the relevant authorities.
“In all my years as a councillor I have only witnessed one proposed tower being stopped and that was the one in Umhlanga Manors. It is an extremely difficult process to secure, as there is currently no city policy on the issue. After speaking to the deputy city manager I would urge the residents to focus their objections on the health issues presented by the towers,” he said.
Telkom failed to comment at the time of publication.
- Residents have until 16 April to submit their objections. E-mail admin@ace-environmental.co.za or fax on 086 565 9264.
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