Toxic Fumes in Our Parks: MPs demand immediate action on diesel-powered 5G mast in Wollescote

The mast, owned by the telecoms infrastructure company Cornerstone, stands at the boundary between Halesowen and Stourbridge, and yet is inexplicably powered by outdated diesel technology. To make matters worse, the protective hoarding around the generator has collapsed, leaving the machinery exposed and exacerbating the environmental damage.

Local families and park users are outraged by the situation, particularly as the Wollescote Junior Parkrun—one of the park’s most popular events - passes directly by the generator. The event, which sees children running through the park every weekend, has now become a health hazard, with participants inhaling toxic diesel fumes as they race. Although event organisers have adjusted the route to minimise exposure, the underlying issue remains unresolved.

Alex Ballinger, MP for Halesowen, expressed his shock at the situation: "It’s shocking that, in 2025, a state-of-the-art 5G mast in the heart of our community is still running on a polluting diesel generator. This isn’t just an environmental disgrace—it’s a deep disservice to the families, children, and residents who cherish this park as a place of play, relaxation, and togetherness. Our green spaces should be safe havens, not sites of unnecessary pollution and noise. Cornerstone must take immediate action to replace this outdated, harmful setup with a cleaner, more responsible solution."

Cat Eccles, MP for Stourbridge, also voiced her concerns: "Wollescote Park is a valued community space, and the installation of this unsecured, polluting generator is wholly inappropriate. It’s deeply concerning that this was done without proper consideration of public safety or environmental impact. We want a clear timeline for when the generator will be removed, so the community can return to enjoying the space without the toxic fumes."

Local campaigner and manager of Wollescote Junior Parkrun, Ashley Griffiths, echoed the concerns of the MPs: "We are extremely disappointed that the new mast has been installed with a temporary diesel generator right on the route of the Parkrun. Every week, children run past it three times, breathing in the billowing smoke. Before each event, we are forced to review the route and make adjustments to reduce the adverse effects that the fumes could have on the health of our young athletes and volunteers."

Griffiths continued: "We’re promoting health and fitness in partnership with Dudley Council, yet we have this generator right in the middle of the event, going against everything we’re trying to encourage. Our Parkrun is growing in numbers, with many regular participants. But we cannot continue hosting a healthy event with toxic smoke billowing from a generator. This needs to be addressed immediately."

With increasing public pressure, both MPs are committed to holding Cornerstone accountable and pushing for a swift and sustainable resolution. They are urging the company to work closely with the community and commit to making Wollescote Park a cleaner, safer space for everyone.

As the calls for action grow louder, it is clear that the situation is unacceptable, and the community’s well-being must come first. The MPs are determined to see this issue resolved quickly, ensuring that Wollescote Park remains a place where families and residents can gather without fear of pollution and health risks.