Telephone Masts

The proliferation of telecoms masts in Caversham causes concern in several ways.

The structures themselves are unsightly, the street furniture encroaches on the limited pavements and is a canvas for graffiti: also many people hold the view that the facilities pose a danger to human health. However, 65 million mobile 'phones in this country provide a lucrative market for the communication providers, and the cards are stacked in their favour.

Masts up to 15m in height are governed by the general development order regulations, not subject to the full planning process, only a cursory consultation. Hence both the local authority and objectors have very limited influence in the siting of telecoms facilities. However, the biggest grievance is that mobile phone operators, and indeed the utility and communication industry in general, are entitled by virtue of rights originally given to nationalised companies, such as the Post Office, to use community land to deliver profits for their shareholders. By comparison, an annual rental of a telecoms mast site from a private landowner would raise a charge of between £2,000 and £10,000. Why shouldn't councils be entitled to similar payments?

Technology has progressed to permit more than one mobile 'phone provider to use a mast. Central government has recognised this development and is urging telecom companies to co-operate in this regard. However, the ease and cost to the telecoms companies building their own sites, is cheaper than them engaging in plans with their competitors in the location of facilities and in sharing them.

Another criticism of utility companies is their failure to make good the excavations they have made. There are many examples of this in Caversham; one of the most noticeable is the several inch deep trench across St Peter's Hill, caused by the TAFisher development. Local authorities should have more powers to force utility company contractors to compact the trenches, and leave an even and finished surface.

If you are concerned you can object to planning applications for new masts. MPs can also be made aware of residents dissatisfaction with utility companies free use of prime community land.