Phone mast plan blasted
A telecoms giant seeking to build a controversial mobile phone mast in the heart of a Cambuslang community have been accused of “ridiculous” behaviour after only giving locals just over a week to respond to their plans.
H3G, better known as Three, are looking to install a 65ft mast on Hallside Boulevard in Drumsagard, much to the concern of some residents, who fear it will become a blight on the landscape.
However H3G’s contractor for the masts, WHP Telecoms Ltd, wrote to local councillors on July 18 asking for views on the proposal “prior to the submission of a formal planning application” and promptly made a formal application eight days later.
The company insist they have followed proper procedures with their application.
It is understood they had not received any replies from councillors to their letter, which was sent during the summer recess.
Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey told the Reformer she was incensed over the way the proposal has been handled.
She said: “I hear from constituents frequently that they want improved coverage in their area and, as we know, there is already established telecommunications infrastructure in local neighbourhoods.
“However, fundamentally, any new installation like this must be sited properly and companies must work with local communities. To give only an eight-day period for a pre-application engagement with residents, particularly at a time when many people are on holiday, is ridiculous and they are showing no courtesy to the people of Drumsagard.”
Cambuslang East councillor Katy Loudon was also furious with the company.
She added: “Many residents have deep concerns about the plans for a mast – particularly as it is 20 metres tall, in a residential area.
“There are legitimate objections about the location of the proposal and the effect
it would have on its surroundings.
“Clare and I would have been happy to work with the company to find a more suitable site. Instead, they’ve gone ahead with the formal application.
“All things considered, I oppose these plans.”
It is understood the company believe the Hallside Boulevard site is the best choice to ensure the widest breadth of coverage.
A Three spokesperson said: “5G rollout is vital for residents and businesses of Cambuslang. We want to offer the community a reliable network experience and this site will be critical to making that happen.
“We followed best practice throughout the consultation process including contacting the local councillors and local planning authority. We did not receive any objections here and therefore submitted a formal application.
“The local planning authority now has 56 days to decide, considering any objections it receives.”