Bigger mast approved
PLANS to replace a giant phone mast in Neilston with an even taller version have been approved.
East Renfrewshire Council has granted planning permission, subject to certain conditions, for an upgrade to the existing telecommunications installation on land near Station Road.
This involves the removal and replacement of a 15-metre-high mast with a new one which will measure 20 metres.
The mast will have six antennas, with the existing dish to be located at a height of 16 metres.
The plans also involve the removal and replacement of associated cabinets and the installation of a 1.8-metre-high palisade fence with access gate to close off the site from the surrounding commercial area.
The new mast will be made of galvanised grey steel and the cabinets will be fir green-coloured steel.
An existing storage container on the site will be relocated outwith the new fencing.
Supporting information submitted with the application states that the proposed height for the new mast is “essential in order for all the operator’s equipment to reach the target area.”
It added that the current streetworks-style column cannot be used for the new set-up as it is not able to support the weight and size of two mobile network operators’ equipment, which is necessary to enable them to share the same structure.
The plans were approved on the condition that work on the upgrade must begin no later than three years from the date when permission was granted.
No objections to the proposals were received by the council.
Meanwhile, a separate planning application has been submitted for a new 25-metre mast at a site in Newton Mearns.
This proposal is for a shareable lattice mast within the same compound as an existing mast at Whitecraigs Rugby Club, in Aurs Road.
It has been submitted by Manchester-based global wireless infrastructure provider Icon Tower Infrastructure.
If approved, the project will include a base station, 12 antennas, four dishes, a two-metre-high fence and ancillary equipment.
According to those behind the application, the work is necessary to “facilitate enhanced network coverage” for mobile operators.
A planning application has also been lodged for a new mast at a beauty spot south of Eaglesham.
Leading telecommunications firm EE Ltd is behind the proposal for the 45-metre-high lattice telecommunications tower, which would support six antennas and two dishes.
The proposed location is land at Upper Cairn, within Whitelee Windfarm.
Permission is also being sought for a “foul weather enclosure,” a generator and fencing.
Council chiefs will consider the applications for the Whitelee Windfarm and Newton Mearns sites in due course.