Davey backs Lib Dem initiative to change Mobile Phone Mast Law

Local MP also calls for higher fees for mast planning applications

11.3.05

Local MP, Edward Davey, is backing the Private Member’s Bill of Liberal Democrat Chief Whip, Andrew Stunell MP, that aims to bring mobile phone masts under strict planning control and bring in the ‘precautionary principle’, giving extra safeguards for schools, homes, and medical facilities from the risk of excessive radiation. Mr Stunell’s bill may be debated on next Friday, 18th March. Edward Davey himself raised his idea of higher fees for applications for masts in the Commons this week, to help councils consult more widely on applications.

The positioning of mobile phone masts has caused controversy across the country as masts have been put up close to schools, hospitals and residential areas. Local planning authorities do not currently have any powers to block mast applications for masts below 15m and only have limited powers for those above.

Edward Davey, Liberal Democrat MP for Kingston and Surbiton, said:

“The Conservatives did a deal with the phone companies when they were in government to cut planning controls for masts.

“Thanks to that deal, it’s now easier to get planning permission for a mobile phone mast than it is for a porch. This is alarming and must be addressed.

“This new bill will allow planning authorities to take account of health concerns and will require the industry to produce more evidence about the radiation emitted, and to justify the need for each mast.

“At the moment, councils are virtually powerless to stop these masts, and face large costs dealing with them. I’ve now asked Ministers to look at increasing the fees paid by mast applicants to councils, so councils can consult their communities more effectively.

“I know that the siting of phone masts is a huge issue in my constituency, most recently with the proposed Orange phone mast on Raeburn Avenue. This bill would mean that the risks would be properly assessed, and safeguards would be given to protect schools, homes, and medical facilities from the risk of excessive radiation.

“I’m delighted that my Liberal Democrat colleague is using this rare opportunity to try to change the law to protect local communities.”