The Extension of Existing Mobile Phone Tower Lease

Council Endorses Lease for Mobile Telecommunications Tower

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback during our recent community engagement on the proposed lease renewal for the mobile telecommunications tower at Colebrook Drive, Eden Hills.

At its meeting on 12 August 2025, Council noted the feedback received and endorsed Administration to proceed with a new 10+10 year lease with the existing tenant, Amplitel (Telstra). The lease will be set at $30,000 rent per annum.

What we heard from the community

• The majority of respondents supported the lease renewal, citing the importance of reliable mobile coverage, especially in emergency situations.
• Many noted the tower’s existing location as unobtrusive and appropriate, given the site's history as a landfill.

This decision supports continued mobile connectivity in the area while ensuring transparency and community input in Council’s leasing decisions.

Background

This Reserve was previously used as a Council landfill and is now home to the Lions Club of Blackwood Bargain Centre. The mobile telecommunications tower was installed by Telstra in 2004/05 and has been operating under two existing leases, which are set to expire on 31 July 2025 and 31 December 2026.

Council is proposing to enter into a new long-term lease with Amplitel and would like to hear your views. Your feedback will help ensure the lease reflects community values and supports a shared vision for the future use of this important community land.

For more information please refer to the Information and plans of existing Amplitel mobile telecommunications tower document to the right of this page.

Community Land Management Plan (CLMP)

The Eden Hills Reserve is covered by the Lions Club of Blackwood Bargain Centre CLMP. The CLMP provides for leases to the Lions Club of Blackwood together with Telecommunications and Utilities Organisations. Therefore this proposed lease is permitted by the current CLMP for the Reserve.