Moordown phone mast update: Libdems back resident-led campaign

5.31.16pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 4th Apr 2006

Moordown's Lib Dem Councillors are writing to residents to update them on the fight, led by local residents, against the phone mast hidden within the mast pole at the Holly Tree Pub on Wimborne Rd. The mast is only 2.5m from a child's bedroom.

Cllrs Gravgaard, Renaut and Russell have opposed the mast.

The current law means there is no legal grounds to stop the operator turning it on. However the strength of local feeling has forced the operator into properly consulting local residents.

"At the last meeting with the phone company we secured a significant victory as they have agreed to look at alternative sites. Round 2 to the residents!" says Cllr Richard Renaut

This is a big success and follows various meetings with the operators, several public protests and TV and newspaper coverage. This has been driven by newly formed Moordown Residents group.

"We have also pushed local MPs to support a change in the law," reports Cllr Sue Gravgaard.

Your Lib Dem councillors have ensured the Council is reviewing all its policies on phone masts, and to publish information about all known current and potential mast sites. Most of these can't be stopped within the current law, but as Moordown has shown, people power is having some effect.

"The real result will be when we hear back from the operator about the alternative sites and if these can be used," says Cllr Russell. "We have got assurances that the mast at the Holly Tree can be moved, and that until consultation is complete it won't be switched on."