Telecommunications giant, Optus, has submitted plans to install a 5G telecommunications facility in Springfield Lakes to meet the rising demand for faster internet as more people work or study at home.
Under the proposal (DA 6935/2022/MCU) filed in July 2022, Optus plans to install a 10m monopole with a 5m turret mount and six-panel antennas, 12 Remote Radio Units and ancillary equipment. The site in contention for the 5G telecommunications facility is within the parking area on 18 Springfield Lakes Boulevard.
“A thorough analysis of potential sites was done during the initial investigation, which included factors such as the ability to meet the required coverage and technical objectives, landowner interest, opportunities for co-location, the surrounding landscape and community needs,” Jessica Bradbury, the senior town planner wrote in the proposal.
“Based on this assessment, Optus determined that the above address would be the most appropriate location to establish a facility to provide mobile voice and data coverage to Springfield Lakes area.”
However, Tom Foote, Ipswich City Council’s development assessment manager, wrote Ms Bradbury on 5 Aug 2022 to withdraw the application and resubmit a new proposal to comply with section 51 of the Planning Act 2016, among other issues with the chosen location.
“It is recommended that the applicant withdraw the current application and lodge an application for an Area Development Plan to nominate the land for a Public Utility and permit the development of a Public Utility.”
“The applicant is encouraged to liaise with Council with respect to withdrawing the current application and lodging a new application for the proposed use pursuant to the Springfield Structure Plan.”
The town planner has heeded the advice and has yet to submit a new DA within 20 days.