Planners back mast plan despite fears

3:21pm Thursday 16th August 2001

COUNCIL planning experts say a 30m phone mast should be built near homes even though they have received more than 280 objections to the scheme by the One2One company.

Furious residents learnt of the recommendation for the sports ground in Green Dragon Lane, Flackwell Heath, in a letter from Wycombe District Council.

The council had previously refused permission for a mast at Tower Close, Flackwell Heath, but this was allowed to go ahead on a legal point after the council blundered. Company One2One later decided not to go ahead at that particular site.

Michael Wilkes, aged 70, has questioned whether the council blunder influenced its recommendation on the new site.

Mr Wilkes said: "By default One2One were legally allowed to continue with their plans in Tower Close but after considering uproar among residents decided to find another, more suitable site,"

"They said there was a consultation but nobody here knew. It seems like they have had to find somewhere. But what about the residents?"

A council spokesman said: "We believe the proposal is the least detrimental way for meeting the telecommunication operator's needs in the area.

"Officers are recommending it because it is a better solution than the previous application."