Controversial plans for 5G mast near city school approved

Plans to build the 17m pole near Sewell Park Academy in St Clement’s Hill at the junction with Wall Road had been met with numerous complaints ranging from concerns over visibility to conspiracy theories about radiation.

But despite the objections, Norwich City Council has given the go-ahead for the mast, with an independent accompanying document with the application saying the equipment would not pose a health risk.

The mast will initially emit 3G and 4G signals before eventually producing 5G connectivity with the aim of improving signal for those living on the outskirts of Norwich.

The site of the proposed mast on St Clement’s Hill (Image: Google Maps)

Those objecting on visibility grounds said the tall mast and large accompanying equipment boxes would be an “eyesore” adding that there was already another 5G mast on the nearby Constitution Hill roundabout.

They added that equipment would take up a large proportion of the pavement, which is used by a large number of school children.

Norwich is currently playing catch up with the rest of the UK on 5G connectivity (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: ‘Yimby’ push launched amid 5G mast battle with Nimbys and conspiracy theorists

Due to concerns the mast’s colour was changed from green to grey.

One objector said: “The change in colour does not affect our original objections to the mast being sited on this corner, in fact they will be even more conspicuous.

“One of our biggest concerns is that the accompanying boxes will take up a huge proportion of the pavement space.

“This space is currently used by the large volume of school children who attend the three schools in the area, one of which has had its biggest in-take yet.

“That piece of pavement is currently a refuge space for them while they wait to cross what is a very busy, fast and dangerous junction.”

When applying for the mast, 5G installation firm Clarke Telecom, sent a leaflet to homes nearby asking whether they approved and if they had any questions.