5G mast plan goes offline
Proposals to roll out 5G broadband to a part of Willenhall have hit the buffers after planners blocked the installation of a mast.
Cornerstone had submitted an application to erect a 20 metre high pole and associated equipment on Middle Piece Way near its junction with Lower Lichfield Street.
But officers have rejected the proposal for a number of reasons, including a failure by the company to prove there were no other appropriate places for the mast to go.
They also said the equipment could have an impact on highway safety, possibly damage trees and the size and look of it all would not fit in with the existing street appearance.
Cornerstone said it is looking to upgrade its equipment ready for 5G and currently has an application being considered for Greenside Way in Walsall.
In this Willenhall application, the company had put together a raft of safety information and reports aimed at allaying any concerns people had about health risks connected with 5G.
Some have even linked it to the outbreak of Covid-19 resulting in a number of mast attacks across the region. These worries have been dismissed as conspiracy theories.
But Cornerstone has gathered information from a number of sources including a letter from MP Matt Warman, parliamentary under secretary of state for digital and broadband, sent to all local authorities.
He also gave assurances that 5G masts would have no negative impact on the health of the public.
The company has also written to Walsall North MP Eddie Hughes, Willenhall South councillor Sean Coughlan and the board of governors at St Giles CE Primary School.
In the letters, they said: “This proposed new site will enable 5G coverage to be provided to this area of Willenhall.
“The Government recognises that widespread coverage of mobile connectivity is essential for people and businesses.”
