Horsforth: Plans to install phone mast near KFC in Leeds to improve coverage after ‘surge in user demand’

Telecom firm Cornerstone has applied to build a mast in Horsforth to boost 4G and 5G coverage.

Leeds City Council is considering an application for the Manor Road scheme, which would be used for Vodafone mobile services.

Cornerstone said the mast, on pavement near a KFC takeaway, would help meet a growing need for mobile coverage.

A planning report said: “Over the past ten years there has been a 40 per cent year-on-year growth in mobile data demand.

“New infrastructure must be delivered to meet this surge in user demand.

“Much of this demand is created due to changing work patterns, with more people working from home, and other factors such as the growth in online and app services to assist with education and homework.”

Cornerstone said the location was being proposed because Vodafone equipment was being removed from an existing shared site.

The report said: “This new installation will allow Vodafone to improve the coverage and capacity within this area of Leeds.

“Many alternative locations and site sharing opportunities have been investigated, however the proposed installation is considered to be the best solution.”

Cornerstone was already facing opposition to a separate plan for a 20-metre mast in Adel.

It would be built on a pavement at East Moor Lane and Sir George Martin Drive if permission was granted.

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Leeds City Council raised concerns over visual harm to the surrounding area, saying it would not outweigh the benefits to mobile coverage.

An application for the Adel mast was received on May 21.

At the time Cornerstone said it gave great consideration the design and locations of its developments.