More Clarity Called for for Bradford 5G Mast

A councillor has asked Bradford Council to publish policies and planning process on 5G masts.

08:01 29 September 2020

Councillor Alun Griffiths has formally asked Bradford Council to publish its policies and the planning process around 5G masts to avoid confusion. The call follows numerous enquiries about the masts which "seem to be springing up without any public consultation and no opportunity for residents to voice their concerns about their appearance and siting"

 

Cllr Griffiths said: "Just because there is a national drive to roll out the system, and planning policies have been relaxed, I don’t see why the telecommunications companies should be allowed to ride roughshod over the wishes of the local people who at the very least want say in where they are sited and what they look like."

 

Addressing Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, portfolio holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, he said: “I want residents to be able to access a clear description of what the rules are, what their rights are and how they can make their views known,"

 

“Where the council has discretion in planning law, it is vital that they use that to give residents their say."

 

A Bradford Council spokesperson, said: “The Council has already been considering this issue and looking at how residents might be better consulted.

 

"However, due to recent changes in national planning policy, the Council has limited powers in relation to this issue.

 

"We are already going beyond our statutory obligations as we recognise the concern some people have about the visual impact of the masts in their area.

 

“Applications of this kind do not require a site notice unless in a conservation area, however, we have been posting letters to affected residents to ensure people are aware of the mast proposals and have an opportunity to comment.