Vodafone in appeal over 10m mast plan

Mobile phone giant Vodafone has launched an appeal with the Secretary of State in a bid to put up a 10-metre mast in a Shrewsbury community.

Vodafone wanted to put a mast in Bank Farm Road, Radbrook, but Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council refused approval last year under delegated officers powers.

The company has appealed to the Secretary of State but residents in the area have vowed to fight it.

Chris Burge, chairman of the Radbrook Community Association, said: "Obviously we are 100 per cent against it. We had a committee meeting last night and we will be writing again and we have urged all members to write again."Mr Burge said it was too near to the shops, pub, community centre and school.

Jackie Nicholls, of Wyebourne Road, said she was worried about the health implications. She said: "I'm quite shocked they are trying to do it again. I think the fact there are two large schools in the imminent area means it needs to be researched a lot more."

Councillor Peter Nutting, ward member for the area, said: "I will be fighting against these proposals."

Dr Rob Matthews, EMF Advisory Unit Manager for Vodafone, said the mast was required to improve the 3G coverage for customers in the area. He said: "This location was chosen as it provides a backdrop of street furniture, against which the proposed pole will not be visually intrusive.

"We have lodged our grounds for the appeal with the planning inspectorate and are waiting to exchange statements with the local authority. It is expected that this will be completed in the next month."