OBJECTORS in Christchurch are hoping to topple two planning appeals by Vodafone to erect mobile phone masts in two different parts of the borough.

Christchurch Borough Council rejected the applications for approval for the 10metre high poles in Barrack Road and Highcliffe in April but now, more than six months down the line the company has appealed against the decision.

More than 500 residents signed a petition objecting to the mast in Barrack Road while 288 people put pen to paper for a petition opposing the mast at the Humphreys Bridge Streetworks in Lymington Road, with 232 letters also received in opposition to the plans.

Ron Hawkins, who led the petition against the Barrack Road mast said: “We are disappointed that Vodafone have decided to forge ahead with their appeal.

“The turnout at the meeting in opposition to this application was astounding so we are hoping the amount of opposition and strength of feeling will be accurately communicated to the planning inspectors at Bristol.

“Three previous appeals have been dismissed by the planning inspector so we are hoping they take into account all of our and the borough council’s concerns and make the right decision.

“I would urge anyone who has strong feelings about this proposal to write to the inspector before it’s too late.”

Concerns about the masts centred upon the visual impact it made on the local environment as well as the perceived health implications.

But according to planning law, if the developer submits a certificate stating there will be no radiation affects, then the application cannot be rejected on health grounds.

Councillors refused to grant approval to the applications due to their appearance on the street scene.

In a design and access statement the company said the new masts were required in order to provide better 3G coverage for the area.

The appeal will be decided by written statements, which need to be submitted by December 9.