People living in Hitchin have objected to plans for a 15 metre 5G mast to be built near a school.

A number of residents have lodged complaints regarding proposals for the installation of 15m-high telecommunications monopole and ground-based equipment cabinets on Old Hale Way - near to Strathmore Infant and Nursery School.

The plans were submitted by Hutchison 3G UK - the company behind phone and broadband providers Three - who insist the mast is necessary at that particular site for people in the area to benefit from the latest 5G technology.

However, this is strongly disputed by residents living nearby, as well as worried parents of youngsters who attend Strathmore.

Posting on the planning portal on North Herts Council many people raised serious concerns.

Mr Matthew Hayes wrote: "I object, it will be an eyesore and too close to the children's school. The impacts of 5G in health are still unknown so would not feel comfortable with it being so close to the school."

While Ms Helen Monk added: "The area proposed is flat and very open meaning the mast would stand out from every direction.

"It would be detrimental to what is currently an attractive, verdant street scene. Plus that junction is already a traffic pressure point, reduced visibility would make things worse.

"These masts are so ugly and dominating especially with all the ancillary boxes and hardware. The industrial estate would be a better location rather than in the middle of an attractive neighbourhood."

There are also genuine fears over 5G emissions - in other words, radiation - that could be harmful in the long-term for children and adults alike at the proposed site on the corner of Old Hall Way and Bessemer Close.

Mr Richard Fisher added: "This is a highly populated area with many school children using Old Hale Way to walk to Strathmore Infant and Nursery School and Wilshere Dacre School.

"For local residents, the knowledge that they are within close proximity of the mast with 5G emissions that are not tested for safety is anxiety-inducing."

Hitchin residents have until Saturday, July 30 to make their objections known, after the application was posted on Thursday, July 7.

There have also been concerns raised that there has not been adequate consultation time for local residents. (See Hitchin Nub News for more on this later this week.)

A Three spokesperson said: "Access to 5G has a vital role to play in boosting local economies, helping residents and businesses get faster and more reliable network coverage."

If you would like to leave a comment, or to view previous objections, click here