A lamp-post on Canvey could become home to three mini mobile phone masts under new plans revealed today.

Orange Personal Communications hopes to replace the light outside 174, Link Road, with a new one, complete with three antennae and an equipment cabin at the base.

Last June, Southend councillors approved similar proposals for 11 lamp posts across the borough. The move, aimed at boosting reception for mobile telephone users, avoids the need for free-standing masts at strategic points where coverage is poor.

A spokesman for Orange said: "It does help us to alleviate any blackspots in specific areas. We want to encourage cover in areas that are not so good."

The unusual idea has been used in other areas across the country, the spokesman said: "The proposals have been lodged with Castle Point Council and a decision is due soon."

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