Road Closed for Derby 5G Masts

Old Mansfield Road was closed from May 19 - 21 as a new 5G phone mast was erected.

18:20 24 May 2020

The Old Mansfield Road was closed for several hours from May 19 to 21 as a 5G mast was installed in the area. The work is part of a national scheme that aims to deliver a more reliable high-speed internet connection across the United Kingdom. 

 

5G, the next-generation mobile network, offers up to 10 times speed than 4G and has been regarded as the key to various technology, including artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) as it has been designed to cope with increased mobile internet demand. 

 

Vodafone and Telefonica UK submitted proposals for the 5G mast in July last year. They sought the council's approval to erect a new 20metre high monopole along with additional ancillary cabinets. They have chosen the Old Mansfield Road, which already has a 4G mast, because it was in need of improved connectivity. The firms' proposal was approved by local authorities in September. Other 5G masts are set to be installed on Max Road, Alvaston, Normanton and Sunny Hill. 

 

Some residents have opposed the installation of 5G masts in their community. Many claim that the technology is dangerous for public health and a small number of conspiracy theorists have wrongly claimed that it is the cause of the coronavirus pandemic.