Sefton Council is set to refuse 5G masts being installed near a Crosby primary school.
It follows hundreds of objections being lodged with Sefton Council after a planning application was submitted in August for an 18m pole with 6 antennae at the site on the Northern Road in Crosby.
If successful, the application would have seen the pole placed close to Great Crosby Primary School, according to planning documents.
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Over 1,000 people signed an online petition opposed to the plans, with more than 100 signing a hard copy petition. 191 comments were also received from neighbours objecting to the proposals.
Among the concerns noted were fears around the location and appearance of the mast. Objections were also received concerning the timing of the application’s submission over the summer holidays with claims this reduced the capacity for consultation.
Other objectors referred to the impact of construction works, fears over property prices, and concerns at health implications – while others said there was no evidence 5G was needed.
One person commented in favour of the application, stating that 5G coverage is "essential for equal access to facilities and services across the community” adding that there was no scientific evidence to support health fears over the masts.
Planning officers said that while there could be no refusal on health grounds, because a certification had been issued confirming levels of radiation within international guidelines, there were issues with other aspects of the application.
In a planning officer report released ahead of a meeting of Sefton Council’s planning committee, due to be held next week, officers said there had not been enough consultation about the location before the application by CK Hutchinson Networks UK Ltd had been submitted.
The report states: “It has not been demonstrated that a robust search has taken place of all practicable alternatives.”
Another issue referred to by officers was the height of the pole, which was described as both “dominant” and “intrusive.” This would “significantly detract from the appearance and character of The Northern Road” according to the report.
Planning officers said there were concerns around pedestrian safety due to how close the pole would be to a footpath in regular use.
In summary, officers recommended rejecting the proposals. Members of Sefton Council’s planning committee are now due to meet next Wednesday, September 21, at Bootle Town Hall to decide whether to allow or refuse the plans.
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