Mobile phone mast opposition grows

KEITH BULL

OPPOSITION is mounting to a proposed mobile phone mast which could dwarf a pub and be situated near two schools.

Communications giant O2 wants to erect the 15-metre high telegraph pole mast with three antennae at the corner of Tutbury Road and Harehedge Lane, Burton.

The land is owned by Staffordshire County Council's highways department.

The structure, to be positioned close to the Beacon Hotel, is aimed at boosting the firm's 3G coverage in the area.

In a statement submitted to planning authority East Staffordshire Borough Council, O2 says: "Although O2 has developed a number of base stations in Burton, there remains a significant shortfall in third generation (3G) network coverage in the north Horninglow and Outwoods areas of the town."

It says that the proposal for Outwoods will 'resolve the problem'.

However, critics say the structure will tower above the pub and be out of place with the rest of the street scene.

Outwoods parish council chairman Michael Rodgers said: "I find it very strange. The company are not even trying to hide it anywhere.

"Masts are going up everywhere, but they are usually at least partially hidden - but here they are blatantly sticking it under our nose."

However, in its statement, O2 claims the mast will not have a 'detrimental impact on the character of the street scene'.

Parish council vice-chairman Ian Johnson said: "My fear is if the mast gets accepted, it could set a precedent, as no other masts are around.

"Will other companies start adding bits to the proposed mast as well?"

The mast is also proposed to be situated within 500 metres of the William Hutson Junior School and de Ferrers Technology College, prompting radiation fears.

The applicant has written to the schools, Beacon landlord Simon Gaskin and the occupants of cottages in Harehedge Lane to inform them of the plans.

Trevor Hathaway , who repsresents the Tutbury and Outwoods ward on the borough council, said: "A lot of residents have been ringing me up and there is a lot of concern.

"What I would say is if people don't try to do something they won't succeed. There is a fear of radiation, especially with the schools nearby."

Councillor Hathaway has asked for the application to be considered by the borough council's planning committee.

He said: "I have asked it is considered by the committee because of the significant interest to the area. It could be a test case for the borough."