Angry residents are up in arms over a proposal to site a giant mobile phone mast near their homes.

Plans have been submitted to Tendring Council by Hutchison 3G UK to install the 28ft (8.7m) mast, disguised as a flag pole, on the grounds of the Clacton campus of the Colchester Institute building in Church Road.

But people living in the surrounding area are concerned over the health implications the mast will have.

Together with other residents, Paula Townsend, of Holland Road, has started a petition, which she intends to present to the council to highlight their opposition and fears.

Mrs Townsend, 37, said: "There's so many stories around about how these things cause cancer, so why would they put it a populated area?

"They have got all that seafront where they could put it and it will not affect anyone."

Mrs Townsend said she feared for the health of her 12-year-old son and believed it might affect house prices.

Mike Page, spokesman for Tendring Council, said: "The Government line on telephone masts is that there are no proven health issues and the planning department would judge each case on its individual merits."

He said they will take the petition into full consideration in their decision-making once they receive it.

Community affairs manager for Hutchison 3G UK, Gareth Coombes-Olne said: "All our equipment complies with the latest Government and international guidelines."

Published Monday, April 21, 2003

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