Surf Coast Shire Council has rejected a lease agreement with Optus for a telecommunications pole to be installed at Bob Pettitt Reserve in Jan Juc.
At its 22 July Council meeting, Councillors voted against entering into a lease agreement for the 26-metre monopole to replace the existing 18-metre light tower closest to the Bob Pettitt Pavilion.
It follows a community engagement process held earlier this year in which 89 submissions were received. Of the submission received, 79 objected to the proposed Optus tower and 10 were in support of it.
"We've listened to community concerns and we've acted on what we've heard," Cr Liz Pattison said.
"Bob Pettitt Reserve is a very special place for the Jan Juc community, which is used on a daily basis by people of all ages and walks of life," she said.
"Locals feel a strong connection to the reserve, appreciating its environmental importance and the vital role it plays in community life - from sport and recreation to social connection."
"While improved phone coverage is important, it mustn't be at the expense of our precious natural environment."
"Thanks to everyone who took the time to have their say. I feel lucky to live in a place where people care deeply and take real pride in where they call home," Cr Pattison said.
