Decision on cell phone sites for 2 Degrees

Manukau City Council has granted telecommunications company 2 Degrees permission to install and operate two additional cell phone transmission sites.

Last night the council resolved to grant 2 Degrees two additional licences to their Network Site Licence. The licences allow 2 Degrees to install cabinets and antennae (masts) on roadsides on various sites.

Manukau Mayor Len Brown says some residents have been concerned about the sites, but the time had come to make a decision.

“We’ve thoroughly canvassed this issue, heard expert opinion from all sides and looked at alternative locations that have the least possible impact on people in their homes. People raised concerns about the impact of the masts and cabinets on their homes.

“This decision will upset some people but effectively the government standards allow the equipment to be put in road reserves almost as of right.

“The council has to follow the government legislation on this. We’re not in a position to just ban cell sites from Manukau. We are required to act reasonably and treat all applicants fairly under the responsibilities and obligations of the law,” says Mr Brown.

The network site licences approved were outside 145 Clovelly Road, Bucklands Beach and 25 Pigeon Mountain Road.