THE proposed introduction of a new British Telecom mast is just not Cricket.

That is the view of residents in the Brandlesholme and Woodbank areas to BT Cellnet's plans to erect a 15 metre telecommunications tower at Woodbank Cricket Club.

The initial proposal was rejected during the summer. Planning chiefs felt the scheme lacked sufficient detail for the matter to be fully assessed.

Woodbank Cricket Club are looking to use the annual rent to pay for improved facilities at the popular cricket ground.

But Mr John Wood, head teacher of Woodbank Primary School, is now mustering parents' support to help defeat the new application. If approved, the mast would overlook the school. He said: "The first application for planning permission was made during the summer holidays and was vigorously contested by the school and local residents. The planning committee refused the application.

"However, despite the earlier objections, BT Cellnet and Woodbank Cricket Club have pressed ahead and made yet another application for a telecommunications tower.

"I hope parents agree that for the health, safety and welfare our our children and residents, this plan must be stopped," said Mr Wood.

And Mr Geoff Smith of Grantham Drive believes the club is putting cash before the lives of those who live under the shadow of the proposed tower.

He said: "The shadow of the mast falls directly over a primary school. I as a parent would be rather concerned if my child had to sit in that school with a mast towering overhead.

"I certainly would not allow him to join the cricket club and spend even more time in its shadow."

The tower scheme will be discussed by Bury's planning committee when it meets on Wednesday, October 13, evening at Bury Town Hall. The meeting starts at 7pm.

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