Emergency and essential services in Chatswood have received a significant boost in portable radio coverage with the construction of a 15-channel macro site in the area.
The new single tower site, recently constructed by the NSW Telco Authority, provides in-building coverage at Westfield Chatswood and substantially increases coverage and reliability for public safety in the Chatswood area.
Kate Foy, Managing Director of the NSW Telco Authority, explained that as the Chatswood CBD expanded and new buildings were constructed, government radio network coverage had been impacted across the area.
“Radio signals are weakened when they pass through buildings, particularly where there are thick concrete walls or UV protective glass,” said Ms Foy.
“Before the construction of this site, there was no network coverage inside Westfield Chatswood, which could cause significant communication issues for emergency services responding to incidents inside the centre.”
The site is part of the wider Critical Communications Enhancement Program that NSW Telco Authority is rolling out across NSW, increasing radio coverage throughout the state. The construction of a single, multi-purpose site saves NSW taxpayers approximately $250,000.
The new site takes more than 400 radio calls daily, made by emergency services including Ambulance NSW, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Police.
“It’s essential that emergency services are able to protect the public and respond to critical incidents,” said Ms Foy.
“The significant increase in coverage has enabled emergency, law enforcement and essential services to better protect the Chatswood community.”