The Town of Newmarket is giving the tentative go-ahead to a new cellphone tower by the Magna Centre, but council wants it to be as “sightly” as possible.
Rogers plans to install a 25-metre tower on the south end of the site to boost coverage in the area. The tower would have a compound, including fencing, all regulated by the federal government.
Council heard out the proposal Sept. 9. Councillor Bob Kwapis expressed some concern about the tower's appearance and asked about possible shrouding of the equipment, meaning additional visual features to help the tower better blend into the surrounding area.
“I totally understand there’s some challenges, but it’s done. It’s commonplace,” Kwapis said. “This (the Magna Centre) is a hub in the community and I think it’s very important to make it as sightly as possible.”
The tower is meant to improve the Rogers coverage into Newmarket neighbourhoods directly north and south of the area, according to Scott Telecom Services spokesperson Kevin Long. If given final approval by council, staff would negotiate with Rogers for a price to lease the land for the tower.
Councillor Grace Simon asked about the possibility of the tower improving service in the Kingdale area of Newmarket. But Long responded that the tower would not reach that far and is focused closer to the Magna Centre area.
“This tower is really focused on nearby residential areas,” Long said.
Council members also grilled spokespersons regarding the possibility of co-location of towers rather than building a new one. But Michele Klein of Scott Telecom said there are no other existing tower options close enough that would work for Rogers's needs.
Regarding the appearance, Long said there would be some concern with covering antennas facing overheating. But he said they could get back to the council at its next meeting regarding the possibility of more shrouding for the tower.
