Archive - Thursday, 1 November 2001


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Mast exposed

A PHONE mast - which some fear could increase the risk of cancer in children - must not be built next to a popular Penarth nursery.

Penarth town councillors reached that view on BT Cellnet's plans for the 50-foot multipole at Grove Place last Thursday.

But despite their objections, the proposals, in which the mast could be erected metres from Bute Cottage Nursery, have permitted development rights.

This means the council can only comment on siting and appearance, not health issues, an aspect which has left some residents furious.

One Grove Terrace resident said: "There is generally great concern over the increased exposure to cancer and childhood leukaemia within the vicinity of these masts."

If the mast was built, BT Cellnet would get 90 percent extra coverage for its network in the area.

But Cllr Paul Gray said: "The intention may be to improve communication systems, but we've got enough of them already.

"It's very close to the nursery school. We can't risk the health of these children by allowing these plans to go ahead."

Cllr Ruby Osborne added: "People are worried about this. I want to object strongly. It's too near residents and too close to a nursery school."

The council objected to the plans for the following reasons: Siting - the location of the mast is against the rear gardens of Grove Terrace houses and a nursery.

Appearance - it is obtrusive and detrimental to residential amenities by virtue of its appearance.

Councillors will write to the National Assembly asking for changes in the law to allow councils to have more control over such masts.

The proposals will now be considered by the Vale Council. However, even if they object, BT Cellnet could appeal to the Assembly.