The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) has expressed opposition to proposed Government plans to relax planning laws for new mobile masts, as reported by ISPreview

The proposals are part of the Government’s plan to improve mobile coverage in England, with a particular focus on rural areas.

A consultation has been launched to seek views on new planning laws designed to make it easier for operators to build taller masts, as well as relaxing the need to consult local authorities.

At present, the limit is 25 metres high in England, which contrasts with a 50-metre limit in much of the EU. Taller masts are deemed to be safer as equipment is further away from people and coverage extends to a wider area.

The NALC has called for the Government to ‘ensure that all heights of masts are subject to a full planning application and proper consultation with local (parish and town) councils’.

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→ ISPreview - Councils Object to Planning Changes for Boosting UK Mobile Cover