Derbyshire Evening Telegraph

09:30 - 15 September 2005

Councillors had a rare attack of unanimity last night by approving measures to confront the Government over the proliferation of mobile phone masts in the city.

Tory councillor for Chellaston Paul Willitts claimed that parts of Derby were "almost under siege" by phone masts.

He called for a halt to masts being built until health risks had been "satisfactorily assessed".

Despite proposed amendments from Labour and the Lib Dems, the spirit of Mr Willitt's proposal was carried unanimously.

Labour councillor Mark Tittley, who put forward one amendment, said the current law of allowing masts under 15 metres tall to bypass planning regulations was "ridiculous".

Council leader Chris Williamson said: "By joining together on this, I believe we can have a more effective voice."