PLANNERS have received petitions containing nearly 275 names regarding Vodafone's proposals to erect mobile phone masts on Old Hall Road in Leftwich.
The application is due to go before members of Vale Royal Borough Council's planning committee on Tuesday. They will be presented with two petitions, one containing 139 names which was presented to Northwich Town Council, and another with 123 signatures. Six letters of objection - including one from Northwich MP Mike Hall - have also been lodged.
Opponents claim the mast would be visually obtrusive and, at a height of 12m, would be out of character with the rest of the area, cause of drop in house prices and raise concerns about health risks. They also say that Vodafone reception in the area is 'good' to 'excellent'. Northwich Town Council says a more rural location would be preferable.
Vodafone says it has looked at four alternative sites, but discounted them on the grounds of visual amenity, potential levels of public objection and technical difficulties.
Recommending the scheme be approved, a report to Vale Royal Borough Council's planning department says although the mast would be visible, trees nearby which stand 6m tall would hide it to an extent, and says a depreciation in house prices is not a 'material planning consideration'.
It adds: 'Whilst it is acknowledged that the mast would be located within an existing residential area, it has been designed to be in keeping with the existing street furniture in the area, complies with the Government guidance on emissions and alternative sites have been considered.'
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