Church did not approve tower unconditionally
The Rev Andre Broodryk, on behalf of the Church Leadership, writes by email:
Re: “Farrarmere residents object to tower” – Benoni City Times, August 9, 2013.
Thank you for reporting on the proposed tower on behalf of the concerned residents of Farrarmere.
Since the good name of our church has been cited in the Benoni City Times, it would be appreciated if you would print our side of the story, for the sake of journalistic integrity.
The details are as follows.
Approximately a year ago an MTN representative approached the church leadership regarding the possible construction of a “data” tower on our premises.
Believing this might benefit residents in our neighbourhood, we entertained the discussion.
Importantly, however, we verbally insisted that our neighbours be consulted regarding the matter for the very reasons listed by Mr Donald (i.e.- health, aesthetics, valuation and re-sale).
We indicated we would be happy to proceed providing our neighbours didn’t object.
The MTN representative gave us a verbal undertaking that MTN would poll the neighbours. Sadly, this seems to have been overlooked or forgotten.
The day after the municipality signage was placed on the respective sidewalks in Wordsworth and Linda streets, in July, we received a phone call from a concerned resident.
Without haste, contact was made contact with Mr Elwyn Donald and the above stated that facts were shared. In the spirit of good-neighbourliness we agreed to withdraw our consent for the usage of land for the tower.
The MTN representative was contacted.
Regrettably, we were informed that the matter was now “in process” because of the placement of the signage.
Nevertheless, we have handed a letter to the MTN representative informing them of our desire to withdraw permission.
We have been led to understand that plans to erect the tower have been stopped and that MTN are now looking for an alternative site.
We understand that a letter to this effect will be forthcoming from MTN.
In order to maintain the honour of the name of the church, we would like to apologise sincerely to the residents of Farrarmere for the manner in which this was brought to their attention.
We trust this will be the end of the matter.
