Residents to have say on mast dispute

Families in a Midland community are being asked to make their feelings known after a radio mast was put up near their homes without permission.

Dudley Council launched an investigation after Stourbridge Radio Group Ltd installed an aerial at flats in Dobbins Oak Road in Wollescote. Since its installation, frustrated pensioners have been unable to pick up some radio stations claiming the mast blocks out signals. The council is also considering allowing the aerial to be moved to Dean Court, Chapel Street, Brierley Hill.

Councillor Michael Evans, cabinet member for housing, has ordered a two-week consultation to canvass tenants' views at both blocks of flats before deciding whether to order Stourbridge Radio Group to resite the mast.

Council bosses say staff knew permission had not been obtained for putting up the transmitter.

In addition, the aerial was sited at the side of the building on the property of a leaseholder, instead of the roof.

A report states: "Although an option may have been to regularise the position at Dobbins Oak Road, the complaints by residents to continuing interference with their radios and TVs has led us to look for another solution.

"Dean Court has been identified as the preferred option. It has a number of aerials on the roof and technical advice indicates the siting of an additional radio aerial should not be problematic."

All costs for resiting would be met by Stourbridge Radio, which broadcasts as The Bridge.

Prior to the council launching an investigation residents had complained the council had taken no action.

Raymond Tether said they made a plea in August to remove the transmitter, and The Bridge to take the transmitter down within three months.

Problems started a year ago when many residents were no longer able to receive Channel Five. That was solved, but now the broadcasts cut through all radio stations.