Residents lose phone mast battle

RESIDENTS have lost a battle to block proposals for a 12.5 metre mobile phone mast alongside a busy main road at Warrington.
A planning inspector has ruled that the mast, in Warrington Road, Penketh would not damage the street scene because the “visual clutter” that already exists along the dual carriageway.
He says there is sound evidence of a need for the mast, near the junction with Greystone Road and a lack of availability of other sites.
Residents won the backing of the borough council’s development control committee, which refused permission for the mast and adjoining equipment cabinet.
Councillors decided – against the advice of their officers – that the mast would have an unacceptable impact on the character and appearance of the street scene.
But, following an appeal, the planning inspector, ruled the mast would be very similar to street lamps in the area.
He said Warrington Road was a dual-carriageway with numerous items of street frnitur.
Although it would be seen from some houses, it would be at a distance of 35 metres – a substantial separation which would not harm the dwellings.
Main radio beams would be oriented away from the Greystone Heath children’s playground..