CHRIS THOMSON

A 31.2-metre high Optus phone tower disguised as a palm tree has been axed before it even took root.

In August last year, oneperth.com.au exposed Optus plans to ‘plant’ the ‘palm’ at the southeast corner of Perth Oval, near the corner of Lord and Brewer Streets.

The story sparked community debate, and 33 formal objections were lodged.

The WA Heritage Council also objected – claiming the pictured ‘palm’ was too obviously a fake.

Now, it can be revealed that Optus has pulled plans for the faux palm once and for all.

In a letter to the WA Planning Commission dated January 17, consultants for Optus said the multinational telecommunications giant had decided not to pursue the project.

The Optus consultants requested that the planning application be withdrawn and the file on the ‘palm tree’ be closed.