Appeal is "scary" (From Penarth Times)

Appeal is "scary"

PENARTH politicians have lent their support to campaigners proposing to appeal against the erection of a mobile phone mast in Clive Place.

But Cardiff South and Penarth AM Lorraine Barrett has issued a warning to the fervent action group - be realistic.

The group, named NoMIC (No Mast in Clive Place) met with Mrs Barrett and Alun Michael MP on Saturday. The group expressed their concerns over the proposed mast, and discussed the possibility of an appeal.

NoMIC spokesman Liz Waites said: "This will be setting a precedent in terms of the erosion of the Penarth conservation area, furthermore, residents are concerned a more precautionary approach has not been adopted by planning authorities.

"Wealthy multinationals, such as Vodafone, know that it is very difficult for communities to take effective action to fight them, as the legal costs are prohibitive."

The Vale council initially refused permission to mobile phone giant Vodafone to build a mast on the site, on the grounds the site fell within a conservation area.

But a planning inspector appointed by the Welsh As-sembly government overturned the decision, much to the disgust of people living in the vicinity. They were concerned about the "apparent undemocratic nature of the process, and the lack of opportunity for their community's views to be heard".

Last week the Penarth Times reported that NoMIC was considering a High Court appeal against the decision made by the planning inspector.

But it was estimated that such action could cost in the region of 20,000 to 60,000.

Mrs Barrett said that Mr Michael had written to the High Court, requesting they extend the period in which residents can lodge an appeal.

But she emphasised neither herself or Mr Michael really knew how the appeal process worked. "As elected representatives, we will do all we can to help our constituents," said the AM. "But we want to be as helpful as we can without raising people's hopes.