TELSTRA has withdrawn its application to erect a 50m multi-use telecommunications monopole at Point Walter Golf Course.
The application by Telstra was signed and put forward for processing by the Department of Regional Development and Lands in September last year.
Bicton resident Rodney Brown said he believed it was community opposition that forced Telstra to withdraw its application.
The result is almost identical to what occurred in 2002, when Telstra proposed and then withdrew an application to erect a monopole in the same area.
“Point Walter is an iconic and world-class recreational reserve and many refer to it as the Kings Park of the South of the River,” he said.
Melville chief executive Shayne Silcox said the application was withdrawn before the city could formally consider the proposal or make a formal recommendation.
Point Walter was deemed a suitable position for Telstra’s telecommunications monopole due to the height, which would increase phone coverage.
A Telstra representative said a new base station in Alfred Cove had enhanced Telstra’s mobile stations in other areas and has therefore addressed the coverage and network issues raised by customers that required the construction of the monopole at Point Walter.
Mr Brown said that he was not confident Telstra would not try again.
“The response to the news of withdrawal has been overwhelmingly celebratory, but tempered by the realisation that unless and until the council makes clear that this site cannot be the subject of future applications, then we may all be back fighting this fight again for a third time,” he said.
“Point Walter is a priceless inheritance and it is the responsibility of the council and the citizens of the City of Melville to preserve protect and enhance this treasure.”