Masts Go-ahead is a Lift For Phone Users

MOBILE phone users in the Epping Forest area can expect better reception after five leading network operators were granted planning permission to put up masts on a fire watch tower at The Warren.

The antennae will go behind a screen on a 21.5m high, purpose-built watch tower at the Corporation of London's office and depot in Epping New Road, with an equipment room at ground level.

Following consultation with Epping Forest Conservators, the application was submitted by a consortium representing Vodaphone, O2, Orange, T Mobile and 3.

Although the conservators had previously resisted attempts to put up masts in the forest, they had become concerned at the number appearing outside the forest, which are having an impact on the landscape setting of the area.

The scheme was approved last week by district councillors, who applauded the operators for working together.

Trudy Schmidt, senior environmental planner for Vodaphone, the lead operator in the application, told the area plans meeting: "Following extensive consultation with local residents, organisations, the conservators, business and the general public, this was the most suitable solution to give the cover needed.

"We appreciate this is a unique area of environmental significance, set off against the need for good mobile service. This will provide mobile phone coverage for users of all networks."

Councillor Brian Sandler said: "We've all got to realise and accept that mobile phones are here for a long time to come. We're constantly refusing masts because they're unsightly.

"I applaud this because a lot of thought has gone into it. They've designed a structure appropriate for the area and have got five companies to work together, so we have not got five applications coming through.

"Anyone driving through the forest will know that you can't get a signal. If you have an emergency there is no way of contacting anyone."

Replying to councillor John Gilliham's question about whether the structure would be serviceable as a fire watch tower, Mr Schmidt said: "The masts will be placed not right at the top but in front of the tower, so it will be safe for people to go up there."

Councillor Gavin Stollar backed the scheme and said he was "astounded" that it was the first time five operators had worked together.

He said: "I urge the committee to recommend to take this forward as a best practice way to work in future."

An alternative scheme to install two 25m high masts and disguise them as trees, was rejected.