Published: Thursday, 1st February, 2007 09:57
Teed-off by mast plans
By Rachel Lamb
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FURIOUS residents say they have not been consulted over plans to erect a mobile phone mast just metres from their homes.
Communications giant O2 is in talks with Helensburgh Golf Club bosses about the possible installation of a mast on their land.
If given the green light, the proposed 20metre high structure will be installed on a quiet pathway overlooking Abercromby Crescent. But golf club members and householders in the area claim they have been frozen out of discussions.
Roger Waigh said: `If the golf club is prepared to put up with a mast that’s fine but the golf club members should be putting it to the vote. What I object to is the underhand way it's being done.
`If a mast was put there, I think it’s far enough away from the houses that it wouldn’t pose a health hazard but if people perceive that there is a health hazard, that’s what matters because that’s what affects house values.`
Campaigners have vowed to fight the plans, which they say will create an eyesore and pose a health hazard.
Worried residents opposing the plans collected a petition of more than 50 names in just a few hours earlier in the week.
One worried mother, who did not want to be named, said: “They won’t erect phone masts next to a school because of the health risks but I have a four–year–old and a seven–year–old who will be sleeping next to one if these plans go ahead.”
Geraldine Martin, an Abercromby Crescent resident, can see the site from her window.
She said: “I don’t think it’s suitable to build it right beside properties when there is so much space in Helensburgh.
“Twenty years ago, people didn’t know about the dangers electricity pylons posed. Now I certainly wouldn’t buy a house next to one.`
Concerned residents from the Abercromby Crescent area held a meeting in the Commodore Inn last night to discuss the proposals which have been submitted to council planning chiefs.
A council spokeswoman said: “It will be referred to the area committee in due course and will be assessed on its own merit.”
A spokesman for Helensburgh Golf Club would not discuss the mast. O2 were unavailable for comment.
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