Phone mast plans spark health fears

CONCERNS have been raised over the number of planning applications for mobile phone masts.

Bishopbriggs residents have opposed recent proposals to erect 3G phone masts in areas including Meadowburn, Jellyhill Farm and Angus Avenue, because of health concerns.

They also claim the proposed locations don’t meet East Dunbartonshire Council’s local plan requirements.

Bishopbriggs Community Council has taken the matter up with East Dunbartonshire Council.

A spokesperson for the community council said: “We accept we need mobile phones and technology, but the local plan is there for a purpose and we should use that as guidance to find a suitable location for the masts.

“Suitable positions are not beside schools, play parks or residential areas. The phone mast people have got to try harder to find better places to situate their masts.”

Mono Consultants are carrying out a study on behalf of O2 and Vodafone, who want to erect masts in Menteith Avenue and Kirkintilloch Road.

MEETING

Representatives from Mono will discuss the proposals at the next Woodhill Residents’ Group meeting on Monday, April 18. The meeting starts at 7pm in Bishopbriggs Academy.

A spokesperson for O2 and Vodafone said: “We have identified that we need to improve the 3G coverage to our customers in Bishopbriggs and proposed a shared base station on Meadowburn.

“We are planning to withdraw this application and review the options available locally.”

A spokesperson for East Dunbartonshire Council said its planning service always follows the local authority’s policy when responding to requests for masts.

The spokesperson added: “Where the operators propose to locate an antenna either on a residential property or at a location where it would have a significant visual impact on residential amenity, or be within 250 metres of schools, nurseries or playgrounds, they are strongly encouraged to engage with residents or parents groups at an early stage in order to address any expressed concerns.

“When formal planning applications are considered the same adopted policy and guidance is consistently applied. This information is available in full from the council’s website.”