A 5G mast that has been erected outside a shop in north Leeds has been labelled a "monstrosity" by an angry local resident.
The 15-metre tall mast, which will provide an improved service for 3 customers in Stainbeck and surrounding areas, has been put in place at the junction of Stainbeck Lane and Miles Hill Terrace, Stainbeck.
However, the ongoing works at the site have caused a commotion, with some local residents complaining that it is an "eyesore".
Posting in the Meanwood Community Chat Facebook group, Liz Payiatis said: "What a monstrosity between Chapel Allerton and Meanwood.
"Ironic it is in front of a shop called Luscious. Are these masts going to appear on all the pavements now?"
Speaking to LeedsLive, she continued to voice her concerns that the 5G mast had been placed in the middle of the community - despite admitting that several of her neighbours frequently have to go outside to get phone signal.
'It's just an eyesore'
She said: "I have seen people out on my street, but maybe people should change phone providers if they haven't got signal.
"It's enormous and it's a different colour from the ones I've seen before.
"A few years ago there used to be a huge beech tree there, but that's gone now. It's just an eyesore."
Liz also expressed concerns about health issues - although the World Health Organisation Organization (WHO) says "no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use".
She also told LeedsLive she had "no idea" that it was going to be erected, but Hutchinson 3G UK Ltd say neighbours were notified by letter and a notice was in place at the site throughout June.
There was only one letter of objection too, and the height of the pole was reduced from 20 metres to 15 metres so that it fits in with "the height of the surrounding properties".
A number of people responded to the angry Facebook post by defending the new 5G mast.
Rick Adams said: "Arguably it’s more subtle than a concrete street lamp and less intrusive than a telephone pole."
Meanwhile, Ashley Brancker said: "Like just about everything else people love to complain about, it's part of living in a densely populated area two miles from a major city.
"At least it has been placed on a main road and not near green space etc. If you’re out in a national park / countryside you’re lucky to get voice & text signal, never mind 4G / 5G.
"There is always a trade off for where you choose to live."
