PEOPLE IN a Redditch village opposed to the planned 30metre mast have been given more time to make their voices heard, following a meeting with local planning officers.
After weeks of frustration with IT issues on the council’s planning portal, the system is now fully operational, meaning Headless Cross residents can leave objections without any problems.
In response to growing concerns, the public consultation deadline has been extended to March 17, giving the community more time to act.
Town MP Chris Bloore has also stepped in, meeting with National Grid to explore possible alternative locations and understand their reasoning for placing the mast at the substation. Further meetings have been planned.
The proposals were submitted to Redditch Borough Council and could be part of a high-speed communications network, helping the company monitor, detect faults and help communications with National Grid’s control centre.
The company said the new mast would host a mixture of radio links to permit more sophisticated monitoring and control of its supply network.
It said the height of the tower was to ensure clear and unobstructed signals.
Those living in Mason Close, Malvern Road and surrounding streets directly affected by the close proximity of the proposed tower have started an action group.
One of the campaigners, Beth Jones, said: “As residents, we are extremely worried about the consequences this development will have, both on the environment and our wellbeing.
“The proposed mast could have serious environmental consequences, especially regarding local wildlife. This close proximity to a school raises serious concerns about the safety and wellbeing of children.
“This would severely impact the quality of life for many residents and reduce the character and charm of our neighbourhood. We urge the council to review this assessment thoroughly.”
A National Grid Electricity Distribution spokesperson said: “We are currently engaging in the planning process with Redditch Borough Council on the proposed development of a communications tower at an existing substation in Redditch.”
Objections to the mast can still be submitted and campaigners are urging anyone opposed to the development to act now before the consultation deadline. Residents can visit publicaccess.bromsgrove andredditch.gov.uk and use reference 24/01177/TEL to have their say before the March 17 deadline.
