Tower proposed to boost phone coverage

ARMSTRONG Creek could soon have some mobile reception relief, with a telecommunications giant lodging plans to build a new phone tower in the suburb.

Planners for Optus have submitted a proposal to build a 30-metre tower at 167-210 Mount Duneed Road that will provide phone coverage in an existing blackspot of the growth area, according to planning documents.

“Optus has identified issues with mobile service in the Armstrong Creek area and are seeking to improve local coverage and network capacity,” planning document stated.

“The proposed facility will host Optus antennas and equipment, and will significantly improve Optus network services in Armstrong Creek and the surrounding area.”

The structure would also be designed as shared infrastructure for other telcos if approved, and would be made available for other carriers to co-locate their infrastructure at the site.

The planning report indicates that planners explored five other sites in the vicinity, but that other landowners knocked back the idea.

The chosen site’s rural location, negligible impact on environment and vegetation and accessible power sources were also in its favour.