Epsom and Banstead ic Surrey 19.07.05

A GOVERNMENT planning inspector agreed that a 20ft mobile phone mast disguised as a tree will be an eyesore.

But he's still given the go-ahead for the 02 (UK) mast at the junction of Yew Tree Bottom Road and Reigate Road, Epsom Downs.

Inspector Peter Drew's permission, overuling Reigate and Banstead Council's refusal of planning permission, will be a blow for householders in the area who staged a big show of opposition.

And those who have to live with it on their doorsteps are likely to be furious at his pronouncement that, while it's ugly, they are going to be the only ones putting up with it near their homes.

Mr Drew's report said: "The proposed tall structure would be highly visible from the junction and would harm the appearance of the area.

"However, it would only have localised impact."

The Surrey Wildlife Trust had objected to the mast.

But Mr Drew's views were: "Although the mast will not conserve the nature conservation interests of the site the need for the proposal outweighs the need to safeguard nature."