Issue - meetings

Members considered the proposed changes and the Council’s suggested response to the Government’s current consultation relating to the principle of amending permitted development rights for operators with rights under the Telecommunications Code to support deployment of 5G and extend mobile coverage and the circumstances in which it would be appropriate to do so.

Councillor Fawthrop referred to the unsightly colour of the masts which did not blend in with the streetscene.  He requested that the Government be asked to use a more appropriate colour such as British Racing Green.

The Head of Development Management agreed to add this comment.

Councillor Huntington-Thresher commented that while the erection of masts created an impact on the surrounding area, people soon became accustomed to them.  However, it now appeared that various housing cabinets were installed around or close to the masts.  To avoid the inevitable visual impact, he suggested that masts and/or cabinets should be shared and perhaps cabinets could be located in a submerged position.  The provision of cabinets should be minimised.

The Head of Development Management agreed to include this comment.

Councillor Fawthrop referred to the environmental impact caused by the installation of cabinets.  As each box was self-powered, he suggested that power sharing also be considered.

The Head of Development Management agreed to convey this comment. 

RESOLVED that, subject to the additional comments outlined above, the Council’s formal response to the consultation as set out in the report be agreed.