5G Protests in Leatherhead

Proposals for a 5G tower on Leather Road cause outcry among residents.

21:26 05 May 2021

Plans to build a 5G mast on Leatherhead Road have met strong opposition from residents who argue that the mast would be unsightly and inappropriate for the surrounding areas. 

 

The plans, which were submitted by mobile network Three, propose building the 5G infrastructure in the middle of the pavement outside some shops at The Circus on Kingston Road. According to the application documents, the mast will provide both 4G and 5G coverage in the area. 

 

A council report detailing the proposals states: "In terms of the height of the proposed structure, it is acknowledged it would be taller than the existing street furniture,”

 

“This is necessary as the site is proposed to provide 5G services and 5G uses higher frequencies which do not propagate through material and potential obstructions as well as lower frequencies.

 

"There are trees on the roundabout and in the wider surrounding area, which would provide a significant degree of screening or backdrop to the proposed development.

 

“Overall, the screening would assist in minimising visual impact to an acceptable level. The screening would ensure impact on residential amenity is kept to an absolute minimum,” it adds.

 

Marco Attard, who claims to be writing on behalf of residents, said that the mast would not blend in with the surrounding area. 

 

“The applicant quotes under the ‘Visual Impact and Appearance’ that it “would be visible but impact not excessive”, I am afraid I have to disagree with this,” he said.

 

“This is positioned on the edge of one of Leatherheads busiest roundabouts, had it been suggested that it was in the middle it might even have been considered to create less impact.

 

“Everyone feels that these antennas are not attractive and do not add any value to a neighbourhood, however, I do feel that there must be an alternative site that is not located in such a visual position,” he added.