Optus has put forward plans to install 42-metre ‘monopole’ and a new mobile base station close to homes off Warren Road, a site residents say is not suitable and have countered with a new location – Brandy Hill Quarry.

“People move to areas like Seaham to enjoy a more rural lifestyle and we certainly don’t think a 42m tower is in keeping with that,” resident Renae Morgan said.

“Brandy Hill Quarry was put forward as an alternative site and this is away from homes and out of sight.”

Optus failed to answer the Examiner’s question to confirm that it is investigating Brandy Hill Quarry as an alternative site for the phone tower, instead stating that it is “committed to consulting with the local community throughout this process”.

“We are currently conducting public consultation on this proposal,” an Optus spokesperson said.

“In assessing locations for new mobile sites, Optus uses customer feedback and our own analysis to identify the best area to ensure improved voice and data services for customers.

“This includes a range of factors, such as topography, vegetation and availability of land.”

Optus has proposed to install a new mobile base station consisting of a monopole in Warren Street – the main road leading into town.

The station is to improve reception for mobile calls and text, enhance mobile services such as internet browsing and accommodate NBN services.

It is not the first time Optus has proposed to install a mobile tower at the location.

In 2010, Jackie Richardson and her family were forced to call on then federal member for Paterson, Bob Baldwin, for help in fighting off a proposal from Optus to install a phone tower just 40 metres away from their home.

The current proposal will see the tower and station located within 80 and 100 metres of two family homes, including Mrs Morgans.

“Optus and NBN Co obviously don’t care that placing the tower so close to our homes will devalue our properties,” Mrs Morgan said.

“Because we live in a rural area the zoning allows telecommunication companies such as Optus... to bypass the development approvals process and deny us our chance to fight the development.

“We are asking people to contact Optus and let them know that this is not something we want on the proposed site.”

Residents have shared their concerns with Port Stephens MP Kate Washington and the Federal Member for Lyne, Dr David Gillespie.

Both parliamentarians said they have spoken with Optus representatives and have been assured the company is investigating whether the quarry would be a suitable alternative site for the mobile station and tower.

“Since residents spoke with my office we have contacted Optus and I am pleased that they are now investigating an alternate site,” Ms Washington said.

“There appears to be a win-win outcome possible where Seaham residents enjoy better phone coverage without the intrusion of a mobile phone tower in the midst of their rural haven.”

Dr Gillespie said he also raised the possibility of extending the community consultation period, due to end on April 6, in his discussions with Optus.

“I have spoken to Optus about the concerns raised by some of the residents about the proposed location of their tower and have requested they extend their consultation period for community comment, while also ensuring all potential locations for the tower have been explored,” he said.

“I know there has been a number of complaints about mobile coverage in the area and we have been pushing the carriers to improve services for some time. I am hopeful there can be a positive outcome for all.”

Port Stephens west ward councillors Ken Jordan, Paul Le Mottee and Giacomo Arnott met with concerned residents at the proposed site on Tuesday afternoon.

“With all this support we are hopeful that Optus and NBN Co will see sense and move the tower to a more appropriate location,” Mrs Morgan said.

To view Optus’ plans for the station in Seaham, and to provide feedback, go to www.rfnsa2.com.au and search 2324021 (the proposed site number).