Plans submitted for 18m 5G lattice tower on green belt land in Streetly

Just off Foley Road West, near the junction with Hazelwood Road, the proposed development will have six antennas, three remote radio units, one dish, four cabinets and a 1.2m fence.

The infrastructure would be delivered by Cornerstone, a company which manages over 20,000 mobile infrastructure sites on behalf of telecom providers.

Cornerstone said the tower is strategically located to prevent nearby residents from having their views impacted.

A large, mature tree is located near the site, which Cornerstone says will ‘significantly help’ in screening the installation from residential homes, nearby Blackwood Primary School and the Foley Arms pub.

The tree is approximately eight metres in height, 10 metres shorter than the proposed lattice tower.

Thirteen other nearby locations were reviewed as potential sites for the development.

Including three more on Foley Road West, one on Aldridge Road, one on the roof of Blackwood Primary School and another in Blackwood Park.

All of the other areas were deemed unsuitable due to either lack of space, interference of signal, difficulties with installation or visual impact.

On the planning application, Cornerstone said: “From the outset, it is important to acknowledge that any installation of new infrastructure, such as a communications base station, will inevitably bring about a degree of visual change for those residents and passers-by who are in close proximity. Changes in the built environment, particularly in residential areas or near frequently used public spaces, can be noticeable, and the installation of a telecommunications mast or similar equipment is no exception.

“However, it is equally crucial to recognise that visibility or the mere presence of a new structure does not automatically translate into a significant or overwhelming adverse impact on the local area. As such, we have taken every measure to ensure that the installation is sympathetically integrated into the environment without compromising the integrity of the Green Belt or its surroundings. Our proposal demonstrates a responsible approach to development, meeting both infrastructure needs and environmental considerations.

“Given the small scale of the works involved in this application, the proposed installation will not detract from the openness of the Green Belt. Furthermore, once the build is completed, any redundant equipment will be promptly removed, further reducing any potential impact on the area.

“Mobile telecom networks are now ubiquitous throughout the United Kingdom. It is an expectation that an individual can connect and use their mobile phone whenever and wherever they are. With the advent of new technology, under the banner of 5G, further advances are proposed. The Central Government has seen the telecoms industry and in particular 5G to be at the forefront of economic development.  Mobile data usage is expected to rise significantly in the coming years as new technologies, such as 5G, become more widespread and integrated into everyday life.”