PLANS have been sent in to the council by a mobile phone company which is seeking to install a 15-metre high 5G mast near to a roundabout.
An application relating to a proposed 15m high Phase 8 monopole, with six antennae, two ground-based equipment cabinets, a meter cabinet and ancillary development at Broadway, Gillars Green, in Eccleston has been submitted by Three UK.
The proposed site is on a curved grass verge that adjoins the roundabout at Broadway and Chapel Lane.
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A cover letter in the plans says: “This is an application for a determination as to whether the prior approval of the authority will be required as to the siting and appearance of the development. This application is submitted for and on behalf of the mobile operator H3G LTE (Three UK)”.
A document in the plans states: “As part of Three UK’s continued network improvement program, there is a specific requirement for an installation at this location to provide the latest 5G services, ensuring that the area of Eccleston maintains access to the latest technologies as per the Operator’s license and customer obligations”.
It adds “it is recognised that the very nature of installing new 5G communications infrastructure within a dense residential area requires a well-measured balance between the need to extend practical coverage with the risk of increasing visual intrusion”.
The application says “it is considered to be the best location within the designated search area that could introduce this proposal in a way that minimises visual intrusion as much as practically possible”.
It argues: “Views approaching this roundabout will be seen in conjunction with the existing street furniture and considering their alikeness, it is considered that the proposal should blend somewhat seamlessly into the street scene.”
The document says: “It’s also important to note the existing telecommunications equipment throughout St Helens that have become accepted elements of street furniture” and claims “the proposed installation is needed to support the Three UK network”.
It adds “the equipment is considered unlikely to have any material impact on the local area, however it should bring significant connectivity improvements”.
The application concludes: “The scheme design is of a high standard and will not detract significantly from the existing visual and environmental character of the area. The benefits to residents and visitors by maintaining coverage to the area far outweigh any potential perceived negative impacts.”
A decision on whether approval would be required is expected to be made by council planners by August 14.
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