Telia Plans 42-Metre Mast Beside Pyynikki Nature Reserve

Telia plans a 42-metre communications mast next to the Tahmela sports field, on the edge of the Pyynikki nature reserve, and has filed a building permit and a request to deviate from the area’s zoning, Aamulehti reports.

The plot is owned by the city of Tampere and leased to the Varala Foundation. Telia Towers Finland says the mast would occupy roughly nine square metres. Production manager Joni Korkeakangas said construction could begin early next year and the mast itself would be erected in a matter of weeks.

Neighbors were consulted in February and March. Four lodged a joint objection arguing the structure would harm the landscape of the protected area. A long-time resident said she understands masts must be built somewhere but believes such a tower would spoil the forest atmosphere.

The company says the mast would improve mobile coverage and local resilience, blend into the trees and not require felling of nearby woodland.

The plan follows a similar 42-metre mobile mast at Kohmanpuisto park near Mediapolis approved in September.