Norwich: Neighbours argue over Jessopp Road 5G mast plans
It comes after one man who lives close to the planned pole in Jessopp Road, Ollie Lee, started a pro-mast movement.
Mr Lee says his campaign has seen his signs torn down and even people stopping him in the street and shouting at him, with dozens of objections lodged on Norwich City Council’s planning website including several around health conspiracy theories.
The mast plans have even seen neighbours bickering in community Facebook and Whatsapp groups, with some claiming they are “sick and tired” of poor mobile phone signal but others saying they have no issues.
An anti-mast sign which was erected in Jessopp Road (Image: Ollie Lee)
READ MORE: Telecom firm asked to move planned 5G mast away from busy junction
Now, Denise Carlo, Green Party city councillor for Nelson ward, has called for those living in the area to calm down.
She said: “There is a balance to be struck between impact and access.
“There is an issue with it being on that patch of grass, as it was planted by [1920s Norwich Parks superintendent] Sandys-Winsch, who did Heigham Park. There are also trees there which need replacing and this would stop that.
Denise Carlo, Green Party city councillor for Nelson ward (Image: Newsquest)
READ MORE: ‘Yimby’ push launched amid 5G mast battle with Nimbys and conspiracy theorists
“Obviously people need signal but I personally haven’t been notified about a lack of coverage.
“I’m not going to get involved in the disagreement though as it has got out of hand.
“I hope it all calms down soon.”
Jessopp Road, where the mast and equipment boxes are planned to be built (Image: Google Maps)
The online listing of the plans for the new mast and accompanying equipment boxes have now attracted 96 comments.
Mr Lee’s YIMBY (Yes In My Back Yard) group was set up to battle those who are against the mast, including those he deems NIMBYs, who he says outnumber him by three to one.
Mr Lee’s pro-5G sign (Image: Ollie Lee)
It is hoped a decision on the mast will be reached by May 9.
