A RENEWED campaign has been sparked against a 15 metre ‘monstrosity’ 5G mast in Warwick.
An appeal by Hutchinson 3G to the government’s planning inspectorate, against Warwick District Council’s rejection of a second application for the mast, has met further opposition from Woodloes residents.
The company says the mast, which would be on Primrose Hill, would upgrade the Three mobile network to provide improved coverage and capacity.
But scores of residents have been campaigning against the application with many distressed by the prospect of the enormous mast, which they say would be a ‘blight on the community.’
Warwick and Leamington MP Matt Western has also criticised the appeal after joining residents’ campaign in June.
Lead campaigner Ellie Leech said: “The company has demonstrated no interest in the concerns of residents – and has been arrogant in its approach.
“The mast will be too close to residents, too large and out of keeping with the design and character of the neighbourhood.
“It seems unjust we have to fight all this again despite the application being rejected twice by our elected representatives.
“It makes me feel we are just a pawn in the game for these massive companies. If it goes ahead it would be a blight on our community.”
Appeals to the planning inspectorate involve an inquiry in which evidence is submitted by the developer in question and the relevant council – and then a legal hearing in which arguments are heard and cross examined.
Mr Western said: “Planning appeals always, in my view, unfairly advantage developers.
“If the decision of district council planners is overturned, it would ride roughshod over local democracy and public opinion.
“After two rejections at planning committee there is no mandate whatsoever for the mast to be built in the position outlined in the application.
“Residents are not against better infrastructure and would all benefit from the mast – so long as it is positioned in a place that does not tarnish the character and environment of the area.”
