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Mast bid signals storm of protest

28/ 9/2004

BAMFORD residents have reacted with anger to plans to build a second mobile phone mast at Rochdale Rugby Union Club.

People living in Broadhalgh Avenue and the area surrounding the club say they are concerned about the health implications of the 56ft mast and fear that it may have a bad effect on the environment.

They say the plan for a galvanised steel pole is 'an attempt by a multi-national company to ride rough-shod over the wishes of the local community.'

But applicant O2 says the mast is necessary to complete a revolutionary new mobile phone network being developed in the area.

Michael Blackwell, of the Broadhalgh Preservation Society, said the mast would be a 'blot on the landscape.'

"This is the fourth application for a telecommunications mast at the rugby club. The last one was a 30ft high Vodaphone mast. This one would be twice the height and would replace one of the floodlights at the ground. It is nearer to houses than the previous mast, which was 100 yards away. This one is just 50 yards away.

"Although it has not been proven, I am concerned about the effects on the environment and on people's health. In the past Vodaphone and Orange have been refused planning permission."

Ann McCrachen, regional communications manager for O2, said the mast is needed for the installation of its third generation network: "Among the benefits of this is wider internet access," she said.

"It wouldn't stand out as being unsightly. The whole idea is that it will blend in.

Phil Sunderland, the president of Rochdale Rugby Union Club, said: "The telephone mast would be situated on one of the already located floodlights.

"Those people complaining will be mobile phone users themselves. They are a load of Nimbys."

People have 21 days to put forward any comments to the council.