Plans for signal boost for Shropshire phone users
A new telecommunications tower could be built on land near Shrewsbury, boosting mobile phone signals in the area.
Plans have been submitted on behalf O2 to build at base station on land at Woodhouse Farm, Minsterley.
The scheme would see the installation of a 20 metre monopole with three antennas, a transmission dish and ground level cabinets.
In papers submitted to Shropshire Council Telefonica UK, which oversees both Vodaphone and O2, said they consulted with the local ward councillor and Pontesbury parish council which outlined the need for a new base station in the area.
Parish Councillor Kate Davies said that the council's planning committee would 'give the proposal sympathetic consideration when a formal application is received'.
In a statement to Shropshire Council Mono Consultants of Stratford Upon Avon said that the 'proposed telecommunication development will provide multiple technology platforms including 2G, 3G and 4G for both operators' thereby meeting the connectivity demands of the area.
"In light of the above and the site's context, it is considered that the design of the mast itself and the ancillary development associated will have a minimal impact on the visual amenity of the area," said John Hunter from Mono..
"It is important to note that mobile services are playing an increasingly important role in our daily lives, in which to many people such devices are no longer regarded as a luxury item and more as a fundamental necessity.
"This has created a growing expectation that mobile devices will work reliably wherever we are. Statistics suggest that 93 per cent of UK households and business properties are covered by all three of the established operators that provide 2G networks. But for 4G this drops to 46 per cent.
"It must be emphasised that the target area where coverage and capacity is needed is primarily found in the built up areas of Pontesbury and Minsterley. Therefore taking in to account the more residential areas of the target area, it is felt that the application site found on the outskirts is, on balance, an appropriate option to advance.
"In this respect it is considered that the proposal is far enough removed from houses so that the scheme will not impact significantly upon their residential amenity whilst still being close enough to provide the necessary coverage and capacity. The applicant considers that the proposal strikes a good balance between environmental impact and operational considerations."
The plans will now be considered by members of Shropshire Council's planning department.
