Protests against 5G mast plan

A wave of protest has greeted news of a plan to install a 5G telecoms mast near homes in Binscombe Lane, Farncombe.

The mast would be installed on the site of a radio base system which currently sits near the lane's junction with Binscombe Crescent.

Moble telecoms operator MBNL has applied to Waverley Borough Council for planning permission for the scheme. MBNL sets up and maintains networks on behalf of EE and Hutchinson 3G (H3G), better known as Three.

The development would see six antennae on a 20-metre mast, along with an equipment cabinet. It is needed, says MBNL, to support the existing mobile network and povide 5G coverage for the area.

But the scheme has not met with approval from some neighbours, who have blasted it as an 'eyesore' and raised concerns about perceived health risks surrounding such masts. Ryan Torrey, from Barnes Road, said: "How come 4G masts are not so close to homes but they want to put a 5G mast that close to homes?" He added: "Also it will be an eyesore." Lisa Martin, from Binscombe Lane, said: "I object to the proposed positioning of this 5G mast. This will be a blight on the area as the mast is an eyesore and will ruin the tranquility of the area used by many to walk dogs and be close to nature." And Alice Rayner, from Oak Mead, called the plan "an absolute disgrace." "This is not needed! It will be a large, ugly and unnecessary eye sore! 5G is still so new and the effects on the environment and human health are still not yet fully known," she said. To see the documents and comment on the plan visit the Waverley planning website here. Comments must be received by August 4th.