‘Eye-Sore’ 5G Mast Did Not Need Permission

A new 5G telecoms mast erected in Market Harborough did not require planning permission.

Harborough District Council has confirmed such structures are allowed under ‘permitted development rights’.

Some people have branded the 15-metre high mast an eye-sore, after it was installed at the Welland Park Road/Northampton Road junction by mobile operator EE last week.

Residents living near-by are also angry they were given no prior notice it would be put up.

The 5G mast was erected at the Welland Park Road/Northampton Road junction in Market Harborough

A council spokesperson said: “The applicant on behalf of EE Ltd, notified the council prior to works starting that the phone mast constituted ‘permitted development’ under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015.

“The Order is formulated by central government, not the district council.

“Harborough District Council is bound by the provisions of the Order which limits the control the council can have over matters such this.”

The 5G mast was erected at the Welland Park Road/Northampton Road junction in Market Harborough

EE says the mast site is needed to maintain fast and reliable mobile connectivity for the local community, with an existing site nearby set to be removed shortly at the landowner’s request.

An EE spokesperson added: “Reliable mobile connectivity is needed and wanted by many residents, businesses and the emergency services throughout Market Harborough, but this is only possible if the right infrastructure is in place.

“We always seek to minimise visual impact when we’re building new masts or upgrading equipment, adhering to all planning regulations in the process.”