LIKE it or not, there is no point residents attacking the council for "not listening" or for its policy in approving the erection of mobile-phone masts.

Government guidance on the handling of applications to do with telecommunications masts is included within planning policy. This is very specific in making it clear that any health-related issues are not matters to be taken into account in the determination of the planning application.

I am very much aware, however, that such issues are matters of real concern for people living near such installations. Because of such concerns relating to an installation in Elton, the director of planning has been in contact with the Health and Safety Executive and has received guidance notes from the National Radiological Bureau and the World Health Organisation. These assert that, whilst there is no demonstrable health risk from such masts, there needs to be "sensitivity" in selecting such locations when they are near, for example, kindergartens. Because of this ambivalence in guidance, the director raised these concerns at the former strategy committee of the council. The strategy committee subsequently raised the need for clarification with the Local Government Association with a view to these issues being taken up at government level. As yet, there has been no further feedback.

Government planning guidance is also explicit in advising that local objection is not, of itself, a reason for refusing planning consent. There must be valid planning grounds for any refusal like, say, visual intrusion.

The Government has also introduced a "fast track" procedure for approval of the smaller masts.

If this council does not follow the national guidance, the chances are that costs would be awarded against it at any appeal by the mobile-phone companies.

So, while very much appreciating the anger and anxiety being felt by local people, no matter how sympathetic this council may be our hands are very much tied by government guidance in what is now a nationwide debate.

COUNCILLOR ALAN MATTHEWS,

chairman, planning control.

COUNCILLOR MIKE CONNOLLY,

spokesperson, public protection.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.