Southampton neighbourhood team up against 5G mast proposals

Residents on Raymond Road are united against the proposals for the 15 metre mast - with a telecoms firm launching an appeal for permission to install it.

CK Hutchinson Networks UK is putting in the appeal - prompting the anger of neighbours in the street.

In September 2021, plans were drawn up to build the mast on the road.

Engineers arrived in September this year in an attempt to dig a hole in the ground but mum Jodie Whitworth, 42, dumped her Citroen C1 right where the hole was going to be dug.

At the time Jodie said she didn’t know what to do but she was frustrated about the whole process.

READ MORE: Angry mum dumps car on pavement blocking 5G mast workers

Now the application has been taken to appeal.

According to documents, the firm identifies the area as one “lacking in connectivity” that local residents and businesses are suffering with “poor access” to digital services.

It adds the land benefits from mature trees and existing street furniture which would stop it from appearing out of character.

READ MORE: Southampton council leader admits worries over 5G roll out

However, Jodie argues that this is not true saying: “They make it sound like we’re a village but we do have 5G coverage in the area, 4G coverage and fast broadband

“Their appeal is that there’s adequate tree cover around the site but then when you look at the photos there isn’t.

“They also argue that there’s more street furniture around, well actually there’s one streetlight."

Jodie's fiance's father, David Dickinson, created mock-up pictures of what the mast would like on the road to raise awareness.

READ MORE: Plans for 5G in neighbourhood slammed as 'ludicrous'

David and Ann Wheeler, 79 and 75 from Raymond Road, also opposed the telecommunications mast for fear that the cabinets would take too much space on the pavement.

David said: “This particular pavement is quite busy especially as its the main thoroughfare for access to the traffic light pedestrian crossing just round the corner in Hill Lane.

“As traffic comes round that corner from Hill Lane into Raymond Road there is a blind side when waiting, it can be dangerous especially for wheelchairs to see round the bend in order to cross safely.

“The mast should be erected where it’s not so busy.”

Residents have until November 14 to submit their comments before a decision is made and should make it using the reference number 22/00026/APTCC.

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