The telecommunications tower, which will include nine panel antennas, is slated for the Telstra exchange in Jean St.

The company will call on health, radio engineering, planning and property experts at the meeting in a bid to quell concerns about the impact of the tower.

One local resident, who did not wish to be named, said opposition was building to the plan.

“This is a huge tower and much larger than the one there now,” he said.

“It will devalue our properties and is across the road from a school.”

He claimed the artist’s impressions sent to residents by Telstra distorted the true height of the tower. A development application is yet to be lodged for the towers.

In a four page leaflet distributed to residents, Telstra said the tower would improve coverage in South Tamworth and was “consistent with the subject lot and surrounding land uses”.

“Telstra understands some locations are more sensitive than others,” it said.

“Telstra works diligently to find a balance between providing high quality services and minimising our impact on the community and local environment.”

The company also moves to allay fears the electromagnetic fields from the tower could affect nearby residents’ health.

“We rely on the expert advice of international and national health authorities ... for overall assessments of health and safety impacts.”

The community consultation meetings will be held at Tamworth Golf Club on Tuesday, June 24 from 3pm to 5pm and 6pm to 8pm.