Linslade 5G Mast Debate

Proposals for Linslade 5G mast have met strong opposition from residents.

12:16 06 September 2021

Proposals to build an 18-metre 5G mast in Linslade have met strong opposition from residents. 

 

The application, which was submitted by CK Hutchison Network, states that the mast is "critical" to providing customers with a reliable network. However, residents are concerned about the height of the pole, which would be 4.5 times higher than the average house in the area. 

 

In a letter to Central Beds Council's head of planning, agent WHP Telecoms wrote: "The location has been identified as being necessary for CK Hutchison Network's business development and meets its specific technical and operational requirements.

 

"The identification of this location follows a pre-application discussion with your department and now we make a formal to you as planning authority."

 

Resident Neil Bradford said that although the scheme would definitely bring benefits to the area, residents are concerned that not enough of their neighbours were consulted and that the proposals were submitted during the summer holidays. 

 

He said: "Of course greater connectivity benefits all of us, but one internet search of 5G masts shows that they have caused controversy and upset all over the country for a variety of reasons.

 

"To decide these matters behind closed doors through delegated powers, without any meaningful public debate, seems extremely unfair.

 

"At 18m tall, the mast will be 4.5 times higher than the average house and almost the same height as the Angel of the North!"