‘Outraged’ campaigners up fight against phone mast
More than 700 people sign petition against proposal
Hundreds of objections have been received against a proposed phone mast in Cambuslang.
Campaigners say the total figure runs to more than 700, and shows the “outrage” in the community at the plan.
Telecommunications giant H3G are seeking to install a 20m mast on Hallside Boulevard, a move that has been vehemently opposed by locals, councillors and both Rutherglen’s MP and MSP.
Last week’s deadline for objections resulted in 349 submitted online and almost 400 printed and delivered to South Lanarkshire Council’s planning department.
H3G say the mast will provide 5G, massively upgrading the area’s communications, including broadband speed – an issue Cambuslang residents have previously complained about.
However, many locals fear the mast would be a huge eyesore on the landscape and damage the remaining green space there.
They also have raised their concerns that the mast would be situated just across from Hollytree nursery and close to a local playpark.
A total of 11 letters were received to support the application.
Liisa Hepworth, the secretary of Halfway community council, said: “Following a recent public meeting attended by more than 80 residents at Dog Hill in Drumsagard, the volume of objections from the community in such a short period of time reflects their real concerns and complete outrage at such a proposal.
“We can only hope that the council takes into account both the valid reasons and the strength
of feeling against this unwanted development right in the heart of their community.”
Last month, the Reformer told how Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey had slammed H3G for not giving locals enough time to respond to the proposal, instead submitting a formal application just over a week after contacting local representatives.
Rutherglen MP Margaret Ferrier has also written to the telecoms firm stressing her objections to the proposal.
A spokesperson for H3G said earlier this year: “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.”
It is believed that the company selected the site fore the mast as it has the widest possible breadth for the area, ensuring the largest amount of people in the area would receive improved coverage.