CAMPAIGNERS fighting plans to put a 40ft phone mast outside a York church today welcomed news that telecommunications company O2 has withdrawn its application.
The mobile phone firm decided to seek an alternative site for the 3G mast after 200 residents in Ridgeway, Acomb, signed a petition opposing the visual intrusion.
It is understood that O2 will seek an alternative site, closer to the ring road and away from houses. The company originally planned to place it on a grass verge by St Aidan's Church, in Ridgeway.
Westfield councillor Andrew Waller, who supported the campaign by residents, said: "I am delighted that 02 have seen sense and decided to withdraw their application for this mast.
"It was clear to all concerned that the mast would have been wholly inappropriate for the area.
"The mast would have been extremely intrusive with a significant visual impact on the St Aidan's church building and local people were extremely vocal in their opposition.
"It is particularly pleasing that 02 have cited this opposition as a prime reason for their withdrawal.
"Mobile phone companies have a reputation for ignoring public opinion when it comes to siting masts, so the fact that O2 have listened to residents in this case is very welcome indeed."
Earlier this month, O2 also withdrew a controversial application to site a 40ft 3G mast at the junction of Heslington Lane and Broadway, in Fulford, after Selby MP John Grogan found it had not complied with a planning code of conduct.
The guidelines, set down by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, require companies to consult widely with residents before submitting an application to local authorities.
Although councils have powers to influence the site and design of masts, telecommunications operators have a legal right to put masts under 15m high on the public highway, apart from in conservation and green belt areas.
MP Richard Spring is tabling a Private Members Bill on March 5 which would make phone masts subject to the full planning process.
Updated: 14:05 Thursday, February 19, 2004
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