ANGRY residents are at loggerheads with a mobile phone company over plans to build a ten-metre mast - right beside their homes.

T-mobile has submitted a planning application to erect a mast and base station on land in Shipton Road, in York.

The plan, which will be considered by City of York Council's north west planning committee on August 13, has caused outrage among nearby residents.

They say it should not be built because of concerns over the health risks regarding mobile phone masts. They are also concerned about its negative effect on the environment.

But a City of York Council spokesman said the mast plan was a "permitted development". The council can, however, make representations on the visual impact and the location of the mast.

Sarah Sherwood, who lives in Shipton Road, said residents would be putting together a petition objecting to the proposal.

"We are very concerned about this mast," she said.

"There are health risks and it is going to be an eyesore. We will be protesting. We are determined to fight this proposal.

"There are lots of children living in this street. I am a mother of two children, and I am concerned for their health (if this mast is built).

"There is no proof yet that these masts do not harm children. There will be a petition going round. Residents have been asking for pieces of paper so it can begin."

The council spokesman said: "An application has been submitted. It is classed as a permitted development, but we can make comments on the siting and visual aspects. This is what we are looking at."

A T-mobile spokeswoman said: "We understand there will be concerns. We have to work within strict guidelines from the World Health Organisation.

"We are confident that our base stations are safe and do not represent a health risk.

"If residents do have concerns, we are more than happy to meet with them and answer any questions that they have."

Updated: 14:49 Wednesday, July 31, 2002