A DECISION that refused permission for the construction of a ten-metre mobile telephone mast near a Watford primary school is being challenged by British Telecom.
Residents are being urged by Hertfordshire county councillors and Watford borough councillors to write to the Planning Inspectorate to oppose BT's appeal to build the mast on the corner of Gladstone Road and Derby Road, near Central Primary School in central Watford.
In February, Watford Council refused permission for BT to build the mast and equipment cabin, and the idea was opposed by more than 150 residents who signed a petition against the plans.
This week, county councillors learned BT has asked the Planning Inspectorate to overrule the decision and allow the mast to be constructed.
County Councillor for Oxhey and Central Watford division Stephen Giles-Medhurst said: "BT should have known better. If they need a mast in this area, the Harlequin shopping centre is across the road they could put it on top of that.
"The last place phone masts should be put is next to schools, especially primary.
"There are serious health concerns about the microwave effects from mobile phones and, while the case for health and safety worries have not been proven, we must be cautious.
"My colleagues and I are writing to the Planning Inspectorate and urging them to reject the plans, and we are asking residents to do likewise.
"I am asking BT to reconsider their decision."
A spokesman for BT said: "We would appeal almost all applications that have been refused.
"We are upgrading sites in order to provide a better service for our customers.
"We have to choose sites that will be of maximum benefit to our customers to provide and improve the service.
"We are happy to work with local authorities, and to come and talk to school governors and councillors to minimise any impact."
Residents have until Sunday, July 15, to make their views known. Letters of objection must go to: The Planning Inspectorate, Tollgate House, Houlton Street, Bristol, BS2 9DJ.
July 6, 2001 9:43
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