CONTROVERSIAL plans to erect a mobile phone mast in a built-up area of Ashton could end up being scrapped because of a council blunder.

BT Cellnet has applied to put up an antennae on its premises in Prospect Place, but the site is in the middle of a conservation area so councillors could have no choice but to throw the plans out.

Ironically, BT Cellnet claim that it was Preston Borough Council itself which initially suggested putting the aerial at Prospect Place following consulation between both parties.

Planning officers carried out an inspection of the site on Tuesday (August 1) and say they are doubtful it will get the green-light due to Ashton's status as a conservation area.

Brian Jackson, manager of the town's planning office, said: "Due to Ashton being a conservation area, this authority has a responsibility to enhance and maintain the character of the area." The proposal has reignited the debate over the safety of mobile phone masts being put up in dense residential areas.

Claus Rasmussen, who lives on Tulketh Road with his two-year-old daughter, Niamh, said: "As residents, we are not allowed to change a thing to our homes without planning permission, so I'm amazed the council could even consider giving approval for a mobile phone antennae."

He said: "Given all the possible health risks surrounding mobile phone masts, I would have thought the council would have put more thought in to this."

Councillor Joe Fitzgerald, who tried to move an amendment in council for the banning of masts on all council buildings and properties, said: "Preston Borough Council should adopt a cautionary approach when it comes to mobile phone masts.

"Planning officers should not be letting this sort of thing happen. The council is not implementing government guidelines."