In a statement, the company said it had considered seven potential sites, with its preferred option the rooftop of 6 Alchester Crescent in Boronia.

Vodafone said it was seeking feedback from Knox Council, and had also sent a letter to residents and businesses within a 200-metre radius of the site, including Boronia Heights Primary School.

School principal Mark Flack said he had received information about the tower last week, but declined to comment further until the matter had gone to the school council.

Vodafone said it hoped to begin construction by the end of the year. It said the pole would reach three metres, and its visual impact would be similar to a satellite dish on a nearby shop roof.

"The proposed facility will not affect the ability of adjoining landowners to develop the properties and there is no evidence that it could have a negative impact on property values."

Knox councillor John Mortimore said there were plenty of suitable industrial sites around where mobile towers could receive good coverage.

A petition is circulating in the Alchester Village area, calling for the tower not to be built. It cites health risks, unsightliness and potential loss of income for shop owners.