Dismay as mast plan goes ahead (From Free Press Series)

Dismay as mast plan goes ahead

LOCAL residents have spoken of their 'extreme disappointment' at the Welsh Assembly's decision to grant permission for a mobile phone mast to be erected in their community.

People living in Pentwyn learnt on Friday that Vodafone's appeal against Torfaen Council's decision not allow a telephone mast to be installed on land between Pentwyn Primary School and Pentwyn Cricket Club, had been upheld by the Assembly's Planning Inspectorate.

One local resident Elaine Sergeant said she was very disappointed with the outcome.

"When the application went before Torfaen Council's planning committee it was turned down unanimously," she said. "This is really disappointing, we need to get together to see what steps to take next."

The residents have been actively campaigning against Vodafone's proposal and turned out to show their objection to the proposed application when the Planning Inspector, Andrew Poulter, visited the site last month.

The objectors were calling for a public inquiry into the proposals but the appeal was dealt with by written representations only, at the request of the appellant.

Wayne Tomlinson, a local community councillor said: "The decision is very disappointing. The residents wanted a full public inquiry but their voice was taken away when that was denied."

The campaigners also visited the National Assembly with Torfaen AM Lynne Neagle to meet with Carwyn Jones, minister for environment, planning and countryside, and discuss the legislation surrounding such mobile phone mast applications.

The residents say they are against the proposed mast because of the unknown health implications associated with them, and said they fear the impact it could have on the cricket club which is situated next to site.