Anger over huge 5G pole outside listed pub’s door
PLANS to erect a 65ft tall 5G telecoms pole outside a grade II-listed pub in Birmingham’s Broad Street have been condemned.
Westside Business Improvement District manager Mike Olley and Birmingham Jazz Festival founder Jim Simpson have both criticised the plans.
Mr Olley hit out at the application to install cabinets and the pole directly outside the historic brick and stone pub’s front door.
The Brasshouse was built in 1781 and has been one of the area’s most well known landmarks throughout massive redevelopment over the years.
It is thought to be the sixth oldest pub building left in Birmingham, behind The Old Crown in Digbeth which dates back to 1368.
Mr Olley said: “There are precious few listed buildings on Broad Street in this area as it is, so this application gives me bad vibes.
“Why the applicant can’t find somewhere else to stick this pole and cabinets is beyond me.
“The pub was here first and it would be fine to put this equipment outside a non-listed building but please just not here.”
This week Mr Olley and Mr Simpson joined musical duo The Whiskey Brothers (Richard Heath and Gerry Smith) for an impromptu musical demonstration outside the pub.
Mr Simpson said: “The Brasshouse is a fantastic looking building so when we heard that there were going to be four cabinets and a giant pole right outside the front door we had to object in the best way we know how, with music.
“We hope our song strikes a chord with the public and gets the result we all want.”
The application has been made by WHP on behalf of EE and Hutchison UK Ltd.
The application states: “This submission is purely to upgrade this existing cell with new equipment to facilitate 5G coverage.
“There are no other viable alternative options other than to upgrade the current cell.
“Given the height that is required for this site sharing 5G upgrade there is a lack of available rooftops.
“The area is commercial in nature and this is the only potential location that is set away from properties in what is a constrained cell search.
“Long distance views will benefit from partial screening from the existing street furniture and trees.”