Permission For New Mobile Network Masts Set To Be Granted

Planning applications to replace two telecommunications masts in Wrexham look set to be granted next week.

The two separate applications have been submitted by CTIL (Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure Ltd), a company that ‘creates and manages the single grid network of installations previously belonging’ to Vodafone and O2.

Both applications request permission for the ‘Prior approval – removal of 15m high column/antenna and replacement with 15m high monopole and antenna and installation of new equipment cabinet’.

Earlier this month we reported that five applications had been submitted to Wrexham Council for the removal and replacement of masts, with locations including Brynteg Industrial Estate, Brynycabanau Road and Caia Park.

The first application that will go before the Planning Committee is in relation to the ‘prior notification’ of the removal and replacement of a column on Park Avenue in Acton.

One concern raised in the report comes from a local member for the area, who notes: “There are already issues of anti-social behaviour because of the equipment cabinets, and whilst I know this isn’t a planning issue it does impact upon the area. I would like to ask if the cabinet can go under ground. Also I would like to raise issues about visual impact on the area.”

However the report goes on to state: “I note the Local Member’s concerns regarding anti-social behaviour but I am unaware of the nature of the anti-social behaviour in the area. Nevertheless I consider it unlikely that an additional equipment cabinet will significantly increase the risk of anti-social behaviour occurring.”

The second application going before the committee is for the replacement of a mast on Holt Road, which again would be a 5M high single monopole column and antenna.

Unlike the first application this particular mast will be 0.2m higher and 0.1m wider than the existing one although its antenna shroud will be smaller. Its associated equipment cabinet will be 0.5m higher and 0.9m narrower than the one it will replace.

Both applications are recommended for approval, with each report concluding: “: I am satisfied that the proposal is in accordance with Wrexham UDP Policies, and that it meets the requirements of national policy detailed in
TAN 19 – Telecommunications.”

Over the past few months mobile network and signal has been a big talking point in the town, with many people contacting us to say they were having issues with signal in the town centre.

Possibly the network that mobile users have struggled with the most is EE, with a Twitter account (EE Issues Wrexham) being recently set up to encourage EE users in Wrexham to contact them with their 3G issues.

The applications for the removal / replacement of the two new masts will go before the Planning Committee on Monday 7th July at 6:30pm. A full list of planning applications due to go before the committee can be found on the Council’s website here.