Surprise over phone mast victory

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Oldie but goodie.

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Surprise over phone mast victory

DAN GRIMMER

27 February 2007

Families fighting plans for a mobile phone mast won an unexpected

victory when councillors went against the recommendation of officers to

reject the plans.

More than 80 people wrote to South Norfolk Council to object to plans

for an 11.7 metre T-Mobile mast on land opposite the Crown pub in

Norwich Road, Costessey.

Families living close to the proposed mast were concerned about the

visual impact such a large structure would have in the area, while there

were also fears about the possible heath effects on those living

closest to the mast and on pupils at nearby Costessey Infant School.

But despite the strength of feeling against the mast planning officers

at South Norfolk Council had made recommendations to the planning

committee that it be approved when they met yesterday. However,

councillors decided to reject the proposal because it would have been an

eyesore - to the delight of campaigners, including South Norfolk

councillor Tim East.

Mr East said: “I'm absolutely delighted that the planning committee

unanimously decided to reject T-Mobile's application for a phone mast at

Norwich Road on the grounds that they thought it was detrimental to the

visual amenities of the area.â€

ine Wilkinson, who has lived on Norwich Road, Costessey, with her

husband for more than 30 years, said she was surprised the mast had

ever been recommended for approval given all the opposition to it.

“It's a very busy area close to a number of shops, with cars, a

pedestrian crossing and all the associated furniture, two large trees - I

just couldn't see how sticking something else there was going to

improve the area. I don't really see that there's a need for a mast

there.â€

Mrs Wilkinson said she had been concerned about the possible health

effects on people living in the area, particularly the children who went

to the school on Beaumont Road.

As the Evening News reported earlier this month, the small strip of

grass where the mast was to be sited had been earmarked by parish

councillors as a natural spot for a village sign and flower beds to

create an attractive centre for New Costessey. The Evening News has

campaigned against the installation of mobile phone masts near homes and

schools until it is proved they are safe through our Put Masts on Hold

campaign.

Are you fighting to stop a phone mast in your area? Call Evening News

reporter Walsh on 01603 772439 or email peter.walsh@...

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