Families in hospital mast fight


24 December 2007 15:00

Angry families are mounting opposition against a controversial application for a phone mast near a city community hospital.

Householders living near the proposed T-Mobile mast, at Woodlands House at the Norwich Community Hospital in Bowthorpe Road, want to stop the 6ft being installed in a site so near ill patients.

City councillor Rupert Read said concern is mounting about the mast and he has been contacted from numerous families in the Earlham Rise area.

Many are worried about the health impacts and the detrimental effects on property value.

He added: “Hopefully a petition or a campaign will gather steam and it's vital we keep people informed and made aware about the developments surrounding the mast. We will be bringing it up at the next council meeting.”

The phone company says the mast needs to be relocated to provide coverage in the area after its previous mast at the Earl of Leicester pub was removed when the pub was demolished.

Norwich North MP Ian Gibson has also pledged his support against the mast.

He said: “I believe that phone companies are going to get more aggressive next year. They ignore any evidence that comes forward - any kind of evidence about health. We don't know the risks for people living near them.

“The companies are aggressive about putting them up and I think it's time for the public to get aggressive, especially around hospitals and schools.”

The Evening News has, through the Put Masts on Hold campaign, fought against the installation of masts near homes and schools until it is proved they are safe.

However, T Mobile argues it is complying with guidelines.

A spokesman from the telecommunications company said: “We need to continue to supply a quality mobile phone service to our customers. All our installation conforms to the strictest international and national guidelines.

“We have many examples of mobile phone installations placed on the roofs of schools and hospitals that all adhere to the rules.”

Any objections to plans for a mast on the Norwich Community Hospital should be sent to the planning department at Norwich City Council, City Hall, Norwich, NR2 1NH.

Are you involved in a battle against a mobile phone mast? Call Evening News reporter Lucy Bolton on 01603 772429 or email lucy.bolton@archant.co.uk

Email A Friend

News: Latest headlines on Evening News 24