Objections to TV mast relocation
A PROPOSAL to relocate a TV mast in St Peter Port is going to an open planning meeting on Wednesday [13/01] after 46 letters of objection.
Planners want to give it the go-ahead.
The mast, which serves 2,420 households, is currently in Hauteville, but its lease is due to expire in June.
Put forward by Arqiva Limited, the proposal is to move the mast to a private car park to the south of Mount Durand, taking up two spaces to be relocated.
This involves the installation of an 18-metre high triangular tower, with two antennae attached to the tower, along with a base cabinet and fenced compound.
Its relocation is said to be required because the Hauteville site has no lease renewal option, only the possibility of a limited extension until December.
The applicant has stated that this site is the best alternative to Hauteville in terms of balancing the technical and operational criteria essential to the continued operation of the broadcasting service along with environmental factors. However, 46 letters of objection, one signed by six people, have argued against its erection on several grounds.
This includes its possible risks to public health relating to high frequency transmissions, possible noise pollution, its visual impact on the surrounding area, fear of too many antennae and masts, as well as whether they would be needed in future as the internet and satellite TV take over.
The proposals to relocate the mast and give planning permission were recommended with conditions at the end of last year after a number of consultations and the applicants’ response to the objections.
n Members of the public who wish to speak at the meeting must have previously submitted a representation in writing and have notified the Planning Service, by letter or email, of their intention to speak by noon on Monday.
