Phone mast plans blocked over 'too close to homes' fears from objectors

Plans for a 16-metre mobile phone mast to upgrade 5G coverage have been blocked by the city council.

Councillors and nearby householders objected to an application to install the equipment on Bradford Road in Pudsey.

Antennas and equipment cabinets would have been fitted as part of the scheme.

Leeds City Council refused planning permission after concerns were raised over its visual impact on nearby homes.

Among the objectors were councillors Andrew Carter, Peter Carlill and Craig Timmins.

The councillors said a previous application for a similar installation had been refused.

Coun Carter’s objection letter said: “The equipment is far too close to residents’ homes and is therefore not acceptable in my view.”

Two neighbour objections were also received, also raising concerns over the potential impact on road safety.

The applicant, Hutchinson 3G, said the equipment would have been installed some 90 metres away from an existing mast.

A design report said: “To enhance mobile coverage and capacity and introduce the latest 4G and new 5G technologies to this area of Leeds, an upgrade is required.”

The company said the height of the proposed mast had been reduced from 20 to 16 metres.

The report said: “The current application has been revised to minimise impact while meeting technical requirements.”

Council planners refused the application to install the mast at the junction with Grange Avenue.