Ben Lomond panel supported

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33453, 7 February 1974, Page 7

Ben Lomond panel supported

The Nature Conservation Council has supported the use of Ben Lomond at Queenstown as the site of a reflector panel for a proposed microwave toll link to Queenstown.

The council states in a recent newsletter that, while it is clearly undesirable in principle to have a public utility on a scenic reserve where the landscape is the basis of an important industry, and where the reserve is a well-known backdrop to the town, there were mitigating factors in the case of the site on Ben Lomond. These were: the probably greater environmental damage if an alternative site were used; the fairly minimal effect on the scenic reserve of installing the unit, which is 16ft high and 20ft long; and the fact that because other communications networks are already accommodated elsewhere, Ben Lomond should not be wanted for any further installations. The council also accepted the installation of a radio repeater on the Kelvin Peninsula, but suggested that an improved site be sought nearby. “There is said to be considerable public pressure for better radio reception in Queenstown. If, as it appears, there is no alternative site, an objection to this site is effectively an objection to

improved radio reception, and a strong reaction against the conservation interest might be expected. Most Queenstown residents would probably rather have radio reception than an unobstructed view, even if one of the reasons for Queenstown’s existence is the view.”