Plans for 5G mast in Shotton refused by Flintshire councillors

Plans for a 30-metre telecommunications mast in Shotton have been refused by Flintshire councillors.

During a Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday, (November 22) councillors discussed plans for a 30-metre lattice tower with associated equipment to be erected on land at The Former Royal British Legion (now Groves Sports & Social Club), Bridge Street, Shotton.

It would also include the removal of three existing masts on the site, if it got approval, which would not require planning permission.

A report into the full application from AP Wireless Limited, which does require planning permission because it falls outside the relevant height limitations of “outright permitted development” of 15 metres, recommended that the plans be refused.

The reason outlined in the report was that the mast, “whether viewed in isolation as a stand alone mast or in conjunction with the 3 No. existing telecommunications masts at this location, would have a detrimental impact on the character of the area and its surroundings.”

In the report, it was added that the “agent advises that a replacement lattice tower installation is required to facilitate the provision of new 5G coverage within the target area.”

A statement read out to the Committee from the agent said: “The proposal seeks to reduce the number of masts from three to one by allowing the four mobile network operators the opportunity to be located on a natural host mast i.e. a mast which is not owned by an operator thus eliminating commercial competition between operators.”

The statement described the proposed mast as being “similar in design” to the three current masts, and “only marginally taller” than what is already in existence.

But Cllr Chris Bithell (Labour) for Mold East proposed that the committee move the recommendation for refusal, seconded by Cllr Mike Peers (Ind) for Buckley: Pentrobin.

In moving the recommendation to refuse Cllr Bithell noted that “it’s going to be 30 (metres) and that is a considerable increase”.

Cllr Peers highlighted that the proposed mast could be “25 metres higher than the existing sports and social club” adding that he supported the refusal.
By Emily Ash – Local Democracy Reporter (more here).