Residents in Salford risk a mobile coverage ‘black hole’ if plans for a new telecommunications mast in Little Hulton don’t go ahead, say the companies behind the proposal.
Shared Access, a wireless operator, and telecoms infrastructure firm Cornerstone have asked permission to build a new mast at Little Hulton cricket and bowling club to replace a decommissioned one down the road.
They say in planning documents sent to Salford council that local residents would be left with no mobile signal and poor internet connection if the plans don’t go ahead.
“Without a replacement installation, there will be a coverage ‘black hole’ across the area. This proposal for new telecommunications equipment will ensure that the level of mobile coverage is maintained.”
The new 20 metre tower would improve network coverage for Vodafone, Giffgaff and O2 customers, according to the documents, which have been sent to Salford’s planning committee.
Little Hulton cricket and bowling club backs the application.
In a letter to the council, their chairman said the mast would ‘not impact whatsoever’ on the club and its facilities.
However, Shared Access has agreed an undisclosed payment with the club which will enable it to improve its facilities, ‘allowing local people an improved social and playing environment,’ he said.
He added: “We are always striving to make improvements and this will give the club a one-off opportunity.”
A planning statement prepared by the applicants said the new mast will provide 3G and 4G network coverage and capacity.
But it added: “For the avoidance of doubt, the applicant confirms that no 5G equipment is proposed under this application.”
