The Regional District of Nanaimo staff is recommending the RDN support a proposed Telus tower to be erected on a private property located on 210 Cochrane Rd. in Qualicum Bay.
Staff indicated the proposed telecommunications tower has satisifed all the requirements of the RDN and recommended the board provide a statement of siting concurrence to allow the 63.1-metre, steel self-support tower to be built to improve the wireless service in the area, approximately 15 minutes away from the Town of Qualicum Beach.
Telus has identified the Qualicum Bay area as having poor wireless service and aims to improve it by providing high-speed, high bandwidth cellular service. The utility company stated there are no existing antenna support structure available nor other feasible alternatives in the surrounding community.
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Notices were sent by mail to all tenants and property owners within a 631-metre radius of the facility.
A virtual public meeting was held April 1, with six people attending. As part of the consultation process, 48 submissions were received with 28 supporting the tower, 17 in opposition, and three wanting more information.
There were those who strongly opposed the plan and raised concerns that included the location of the facility, potential health risk, environmental impacts and perceived decrease in property values.
The staff recommendation will be presented at the Electoral Area Services Committee meeting on June 7 for discussion before it is presented to the RDN board for final approval.