We're delighted mast plan was rejected


06 December 2005 12:21

Planners have delighted phone mast campaigners by throwing out plans for a 10-metre mast in Norwich before it went to committee.

Families were urged to back a campaign opposing plans for the timber pole and antennae near to the Newmarket Road doctors surgery.

Telecommunications giant Vodafone submitted an application to Norwich City Council last month, but planners have already decided a mast would not be suitable in the area.

"The mobile phone mast on Newmarket Road was refused by planners on the grounds that it would be obtrusive in the street scene, that it's not part of the character of the conservation area," said a city council spokeswoman.

She added that planners also thought the mast would also "adversely affect the street amenities of the area".

James Lord, 75, of Glenalmond, off Newmarket Road, said he was delighted with the decision after being one of the people living in the area in opposition to the proposal.

"I think that's absolutely right," he said. "My objection in the first place was that a large piece of industrial equipment like that does not belong in a residential area.

"When you bear in mind the main approach to Norwich is up the Newmarket Road and that would be seen just as they come past the sign 'Norwich – A fine city'. Would that be the right thing to see?"

The Evening News has campaigned against the installation of mobile phone masts near homes and schools until it is proved they are safe.

"I'm pleased," said Chris Hull, Green county councillor for Town Close ward, who headed the campaign against the mast and found there was unanimous disapproval.

"It was pretty clear to me in canvassing door to door and speaking to people about the process that of their own volition people were saying to me they didn't want it — I couldn't find anyone in favour.

"It was proposed to be sited on a public highway, in a residential area, and it would have been visible from quite a way around at 12 metres in total — a 10 metre pole with two metres of antennae on top."

A spokeswoman for Vodafone said they would look carefully at the reasons for the refusal and see if there are any alterations which could be made to the proposal.

"Whether we will appeal or not it's difficult to say," she said. "We don't take that decision lightly. It's very much a case of we will take a review of the situation and decide from there."

Are you fighting a mobile phone mast application? Telephone reporter Peter Walsh on (01603) 772439 or e-mail peter.walsh@archant.co.uk

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