Application to retain broadband monopole and cabinets at Hawton Road and Grange Road, Newark, approved by Newark and Sherwood District Council

An application to retain broadband cabinets at a busy junction has been approved, despite safety concerns.

Hutchinson 3G UK Ltd had asked to retain the broadband monopole and cabinets at a the corner of Hawton Road and Grange Road in Newark after they were not sited in accordance with the original plans.

Nearby residents have claimed the equipment blocks the views of motorists turning out of Grange Road on to Hawton Road.

But it was approved by Newark and Sherwood District Council's planning committee.

Laurence Goff, a committee member, said: “As a local councillor for the area I know the area very well. I have concerns like some of the residents that live on Hawton Road.

"We are grateful that the speed limit has been reduced to 30 mph but unfortunately people don’t always go along with the 30mph.

“We know the mast can be a distraction when you’re driving and can also block your view.

“We know the residents who live around there are up in arms about it and I, as a local councillor, am proposing to vote against this application.”

Another committee member, Bob Crowe, replied: “The people I’ve spoken to on my ward actually welcome this aerial because a lot of them are the only type of telephone they have got. They haven't got any other telephone in their house or actually within the people who live in the house.”

Initial reasons for refusal of the proposal included insufficient information provided with the application submission to assess the suitability and safety of the proposal on highway safety, particularly the visibility splays at the junction.

A speed survey was carried out by a National Highway team that proved that speeds of 32.65mph is achievable and the team showed no objection to the siting of the telecommunication equipment.

The proposal was approved by six votes in favour to three against.