Phone firm plans new street mast

Thursday 19th February 2009, 10:10AM GMT.

Generic phone mastA 41ft mobile phone mast could be put up in a Telford street, despite opposition from residents. Telefonica O2 says the low power radio transmitter is needed in Sutton Hill.

But residents, who have formed an action group called Sutton Hill Against Masts, are concerned about radiation and potential effects on health and ask why the mast is necessary.

Twenty five-letters of objection – 13 from the same person – have been sent in to Telford & Wrekin Council over the planning application.

They say an “attractive area will be decimated by such an ugly construction” and the mast and cabinets would not be in keeping with the area.

Two letters of support have been received, saying the pole and associated equipment would have a minimum impact on the visual amenity of the area.

They say the proposed site was ideal and would not affect the views and the installation would improve the poor signal strength of mobile phones in the area.

The application is being determined by Telford & Wrekin Council’s plans board on Wednesday, after a request from Councillor Alan Mackenzie, member for Cuckoo Oak.

Members are being recommended to agree the proposed slim monopole does not need planning permission and therefore prior approval is given to site it in Sutton Way.

A report to members, prepared by council officers, says: “On balance, the proposal is considered an acceptable installation in an urban residential area, where the appearance of a slimline street works monopole would not significantly detract from the character of the area, or appear as visual clutter.”


  1. 1
    Grey

    I’m sure all the objectors set examples and don’t use personal mobile phones…

    Report abuse

  2. 2
    Karl

    What do you need a mobile phone for if you’re Bill No-Mates? I thought 02 supplied the infrastructure to the emergency services also, perhaps the same people don’t want Fireman Sam or PC McGarry No 452 turning up either?

    Report abuse

  3. 3
    Bex

    Can they not put in an orange mast instead. I can’t get a signal at all down by the river where I live and work. I don’t see why I should run up a landline bill calling other people on their mobiles when I could use my free minutes instead… if I had a signal!

    Report abuse

  4. 4
    tony

    They say an “attractive area will be decimated by such an ugly construction” and the mast and cabinets would not be in keeping with the area. this is the same sutton hill that i live on ?

    Report abuse

  5. 5
    Oliver Healey

    Sutton Hill must demand that the masts be removed.

    All masts in built up residential areas must be resited in lower density areas.

    Vote English Democrat get real local democracy

    Report abuse



Free e-Supplements

TWITTER

Shropshire Star on Twitter Shropshire Star on Twitter

Keep updated with the latest breaking news and content on our Twitter feed.

Lifestyle

Interactive Dining Out map Interactive Dining Out map

Hundreds of reviews by the Shropshire Star and Express & Star's teams to help you decide where to eat.

LIVE traffic updates

Road, rail and airport - latest Road, rail and airport - latest

Our new, live traffic and travel updates service - check before you set out.

OUR NEW APP

Get the new Shropshire Star app Get the new Shropshire Star app

Download the Shropshire Star’s new app to your iPad or iPhone to get one week of access to our digital newspapers absolutely FREE.