DECISION DUE THIS WEEK ON CONTROVERSIAL PHONE MAST PLAN FOR LEAFY PART OF GRIMSBY

 

Location of the proposed telecommunications mast

A DECISION is expected this week on a controversial proposal to install a communications mast and cabin at a leafy site on the outskirts of Grimsby.

Hutchison UK Ltd has applied to erect the 15-meter monopole, with 5G antennae  and wraparound cabinet, on a highway verge on  Great Coates Road adjacent to the John Whitgift Academy playing field

The firm wants to enhance its coverage as part of a roll-out of 5G communication for users of smart cellphones.

But there have been many objections to the application, notably from residents of nearby Mayfair Drive West and Waby Drive.

Says one objector: "It will be much taller than lampposts and would have a dire impact on parkland appearance of the area. 

"Cabinets are also intrusive in size and number and would create more clutter - there already too many road and school signs. 

"Put it in front of Grimsby Town Hall!"

Concerns have also been expressed about a potential radiation threat to school pupils and a disorientating impact on wildlife - for instance, bees and migrating birds.

However, it is understood any radiation will be  within internationally acceptable limits for this sort of electronic equipment.

The nearby school was invited to comment on the application, but has chosen not to so.

According to Hutchison,  no mast-sharing positioning on existing buildings is feasible. 

This includes the use of St Nicholas' Church or St Michael's Church (both Grade 1 listed) which have been  ruled out due to coverage area and architectural  significance. 

At a meeting of North East Lincolnshire Council's planning committee tomorrow (Wednesday), Engie case officer Jonathan Cadd will recommend approval.

His report states: "Mobile phone masts are now a more accepted part of modern street furniture and monopole designs generally assist to ensure equipment do not appear out of keeping with an area.

"In this instance, however, the mast would be almost twice the height of the streetlights in the area, 15m to the top of the antennas compared to 10m for the streetlights and somewhat wider at 400mm in diameter compared to 120mm for the street lights. 

"These differences would emphasise the presence of the proposed mast within the streetscene making it an obvious addition within Great Coates Road. 

"Whilst the mast will be an obvious addition to the streetscene, particularly given its width, it would still be a vertical feature not unlike most of the street lights which are positioned regularly along this stretch and side of the highway. 

"If the mast were to be coloured dark green, to match the more modern street lighting columns, it would not significantly detract from the appearance and character of the area particularly when viewed along Great Coates Road from the north or south."

The report concludes: "Despite objectors' concerns the applicant has provide certificate to show radiation emissions would be within accepted levels. 

"Despite its scale and height, the mast is not considered to be such an alien feature as to have an unacceptable impact on the character and appearance of the area nor the visual amenities of residents."