Anger over 5G mast plans in Willenhall

Telecommunications firm Hutchison is seeking prior approval from Walsall Council to erect an 18m monopole on a patch of green space on Clarkes Lane.

But dozens of people living around the area in question are concerned about the impact the mast will have on their homes.

Council planners have also been criticised after only six adjoining properties were notified of the proposal, with others in the estate only finding out from neighbours.

Walsall Council said it had followed legislation by notifying direct neighbours but added all relevant representations will be considered as part of the process.

Hutchison has permitted development rights on the land but is seeking approval for the siting and appearance of the equipment.

In its application, the company said the scheme was needed to improve 5G coverage and added this would not have a negative impact on the area.

But Honeybourne Way resident Gill Hatton, whose house sits next to the land, said: “This has caused a lot of distress. Mine and a neighbour’s gardens are going to run alongside this so we are directly affected.

'Absolutely livid'

“There are numerous people on the estate who are absolutely livid about this and very upset. We are frightened about our welfare given how close it is going to be to our homes. We are very concerned as a community.

“The council sent out notification to six houses – the minimum they could do. So what we did do was alert people around and behind who will also be affected and they were grateful we had told them.

“This thing will dominate the skyline, health-wise there is a risk – especially being so close. And I’m very worried about the value of my house. We’ve worked all our lives and struggled to pay for it. How would we ever be able to sell it if we decided to?"

Ward councillor Diane Coughlan, who has made representations on behalf of residents, said: “They were aggrieved that only six households had been officially consulted by the council when they feel it would have an impact on all of them.

“It is our duty to help and support residents to ensure their voices are heard in the decision making process.”

A Walsall Council spokeswoman said: “In accordance with relevant legislation the council consulted with all adjoining neighbours.

“Any member of the public is able to comment on planning applications made to the council. Where these comments are in regard to the material considerations the LPA can consider they will be taken into account in reaching that decision. A petition in relation to this proposal has been received by the council.”

A decision is expected to be made on Wednesday.