Application for mobile phone mast refused (From Gazette Series)

Application for mobile phone mast refused

1:00pm Tuesday 23rd September 2008

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PLANS for a controversial phone mast on a busy school route have been cut off amid fears it could have caused a fatal accident.

Mobile company O2 was bidding for approval to erect a 10-metre high pole and equipment kiosk on a grassy verge in Park Lane, Frampton Cotterell.

But the firm is hanging up on the proposal after local residents persuaded South Gloucestershire Council planners the site is too dangerous.

Ward councillor Dave Hockey (Lib Dem, Frampton Cotterell) told the development control committee at a meeting last Thursday: "Scores of primary school children cross onto Rectory Road at this junction.

"There is a safety issue here because the equipment kiosk will not only block the verge but will block the view of children."

He said speeding motorists already pose a danger to young children in the area.

Added Cllr Hockey: "This is the last place you need another hazard for school children."

Cllr Brian Hopkinson (Con, Bradley Stoke) said: "This would cause children to bunch up together to stay on the pavement.

"There is the danger of children being put in the path of oncoming cars.

"Somebody could die – I can see it happening."

Homeowners also argued the 3G mast would be a "blot on the landscape".

Jack Raymond, who has lived opposite for 23 years, said: "Everyone in the area tries to keep it looking like a village.

"We maintain our dry stone walls and it is a pleasant place to live.

"This just would not look right and would totally spoil the ambience of the area."

Gary Gallagher, speaking for O2, said: "The mast would have been common to other poles in Frampton Cotterell and would not have compromised the street scene.

"It was an optimum site for service and appearance."

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