Despite objections from the occupants of neighbouring properties and the Parish Council, planning permission has been granted for the retention of a temporary telephone mast on Moss Lane.
Arqiva submitted the application on behalf of EE and Hutchison who have provided 2G and 3G coverage for commercial, retail and residential customers for a long time from the Festival Hall. However, due to the redevelopment of the hall and construction of the Medical Centre the operators were required to remove the mast.
The application states "In order to maintain the level of coverage and capacity at the existing levels that their customers expect and require within the settlement, a temporary installation was sited at the using emergency powers whilst a site for a permanent replacement installation sought."
Many residents of Orchard Green objected to the application and said the owner of the mast has not consulted with them at all.
One of whom said "There is no guarantee that the owners of the mast will not seek a further extension to leave it in position for a further six months.The mast has already been in place for longer than the original 12 month period that is permitted without planning consent and the owners of the mast have failed to apply for lawful permission within that time period.
"The mast is based only a few metres from our garden and dominates our view from the rear of the house and throughout the garden."
Another resident of Orchard Green described it as a "blot on the landscape" saying "I strongly object to this unsightly mast being mast being placed in such close proximity to residential properties."
One local resident wrote "This is a very tall and unsightly mast which represents an eyesore from Orchard Green."
Another complained that "The mast is an eyesore and detracts from the pleasant outlook of this part of the village."
Alderley Edge Parish Council also objected to the application on the grounds that "it is overbearing and within the 14m guidance for a neighbouring property. It is un-neighbourly and the applicant has misled the neighbouring residents with respect to the temporary nature of the installation".
Arqiva have confirmed a replacement site has now been found, they have not revealed the location but have said it is not at the telephone exchange. They are in the process of acquiring the site which they expect to be operational in six months.
EE and Hutchison have been granted permission for the mast to remain at the telephone exchange for a further six months.
The Decision Notice states "It shall be removed and the site returned to its former condition on or before 31st November 2016 unless in the meantime a further application has been submitted to and approved by the Local Planning Authority."
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