Residents and councillors of an Isle of Wight coastal town have rallied against a proposal to build a 20-metre 5G mast opposite a playing field.
Sandown and Lake County Hall representatives Cllr Ian Ward and Cllr Paul Brading joined locals in denouncing Mobile Broadband Network Limited’s (MBNL) prior approval application for a proposed 20 metre monopole, supporting nine antenna apertures and two 0.3 metre dishes on land next to 1 Perowne Way, Sandown.
A document included in MBNL’s application, ‘5G and Future Technology – Delivering the UK’s Telecoms Future’, says that though 5G telecommunications technology will ‘undoubtedly bring new opportunities and huge benefits’, there is a need for ‘new structures, antennas and ancillary equipment’.
It reads:
“It is estimated that 5G will directly contribute to an additional £7 billion a year to the UK economy in just six years from roll-out.
“In addition, 5G offers download speeds far in excess of what can be achieved today, even by fixed line broadband. Such increased speeds and low latency provide the potential for far greater opportunities.
“The internet and mobile connectivity rely upon the deployment of new fibre networks.
“Utilising these fibre networks allows each mobile base station to link back into the wider core network, however, the requirements in the future are for ubiquitous coverage and this will mean the more complex, more remote locations throughout the country will need further new installations.”
Those opposed to the new mast have raised concerns relating to ‘health risks’, the development constituting an ‘eyesore’, transparency and public engagement, the environment, the mast’s height and its proximity to neighbouring residential property.
Explaining his objection, Cllr Ward said:
“The location of the mast is very close to residential properties and it will certainly have a negative financial effect on such nearby properties by being so visibly intrusive.
“There are several concerns about the negative effect on wildlife locally. There is a concern about the effect of radiation to the local area and nearby residents.
“The poll and associated connection boxes could be sited further away from residential properties, possibly within the railway estate where it wouldn’t be so prominent.”
County Hall’s public consultation on the application finishes on March 14 and a decision is expected on March 28.
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