Ponthir Plans New Location for 5G Mast

Torfaen council’s planning officers want an alternative location for a 65-foot 5G mast originally planned in the Ponthir area of Cwmbran.

19:13 12 August 2021

Torfaen council’s planning officers are asking CK Hutchinson Networks to explore alternative locations after the telecommunication company filed an application to build a 65-foot structure in the Ponthir area of Cwmbran. 

 

CK Hutchison Networks, which operates the mobile service provider Three, submitted an application for prior notification to determine whether it requires the local council's permission before it pushes forward with the development. 

 

The local council responded to the application after local residents and the county borough council raised their concerns over the structure's visual impact and its corner location. 

 

The decision report says “the developer has not adequately considered the impact on visual amenity and highway safety”.

 

The community council’s objection also says: “The World Health Organisation has advised that until more is known about the long term effects of 5G masts, they should not be placed by schools. There is both a nursery and school within 100 yards of the proposed site.”

 

The officer’s report says: “The proposed application site does not benefit from any natural screening and therefore the proposed installation will be very prominent with the locality.”