Controversial mast completes Airtel network

A LONG-RUNNING dispute about Airtel-Vodafone installing a mobile phone mast at Oakleigh Vinery has ended now the transmitter has gone live.

Its erection at the site off Landes du Marche, Vale, is the final piece in a major investment programme which began in 2007 but, due to considerable planning issues, completion of which has been delayed until this month.

Permission was granted in February after a revised application reduced the height of the mast by two metres – to 16, about 52ft – and screened it with trees to hide it from Les Landes Clos, whose residents had campaigned against the project.

At the time of its approval, former Environment minister Peter Sirett said new phone masts should be tested immediately to make sure they met exposure guidelines.