PLANS to improve internet coverage for residents in the Latchford and Westy area have been dealt a blow after a new 5G mast was refused.

An application had been submitted to Warrington Borough Council’s planning department seeking prior approval consent.

This was for proposed telecommunications equipment and associated works on a grass verge opposite numbers 113 and 115 on Reynolds Street.

If granted approval, applicant WHP Telecoms Ltd would have installed a 20metre-high galvanised steel monopole with six antennae, along with four cabinets.

But permission has not been granted by the council.

Planning documents state: “The Government is committed to supporting investment in high-quality, reliable digital connectivity, so that communities can benefit from faster economic growth and greater social inclusion.

“It is essential to keep pace with growing demand for internet bandwidth and mobile data from businesses, residents and those who visit our communities.

“The 3G network relies on older, less efficient technology, and so Vodafone has become the first mobile network operator to successfully switch off its 3G service in order to make room for more advanced and reliable 4G and 5G technology.

“The proposed installation is therefore needed to support Vodafone’s network.”

One letter of objection was submitted by a resident who said: “The mast would be quite obvious protruding above the trees and ruin what is currently a fairly pleasant view out of the front of a number of surrounding houses.

“Another location nearby, such as within the grounds of Pierpoint and Bryant Recreation Club, would be less visible to surrounding residents.”

Documents state that alternative sites were considered during the initial stages, but no suitable alternatives were identified.

In refusing permission, the council said: “The proposed development, by reason of its prominent siting on an attractive amenity area, the height of the mast and the range of equipment cabinets would be a visually incongruent addition to the street scene.

“It would also be detrimental to the character of the area, resulting in harm to visual amenity and the amenities of nearby residents on Reynolds Street.

“These concerns are not outweighed by the need for the installation of the equipment at this specific site, and it has not been sufficiently demonstrated that alternative sites could not have been utilised.

“For these reasons the proposed development is assessed to be contrary to planning policies.”