Derbyshire Evening Telegraph

09:30 - 20 August 2005

A Mobile phone firm has angered residents by proposing to erect a telecommunications mast disguised as a telegraph pole.

Neighbours believe the Vodafone mast would be put in a bad position, despite its disguise, as they are worried about the health implications.

The timber-clad mast is planned for land near Ladywood Primary School, Oliver Road, Kirk Hallam, and residents are worried as it will be near homes on Goole Avenue and Queen Elizabeth Way.

Goole Avenue resident Derek Espie said: "It's very close to the school and we're all worried."

Vodaphone said the 12-metre high aerial is needed to improve their service. Officials have written to the school as well as local people and they said there are no health dangers.

Omega this is not true: there are health dangers. See e.g. "MOBILE PHONE MASTS: The Awful TRUTH About Their Effects On Your HEALTH" under: http://omega.twoday.net/stories/912897/

A spokeswoman said: "Our job is to have a balance between making sure we minimise visual impact and still provide a service to local people."