Residents dig deep to hide mast equipment

Local residents are planning a planting morning to camouflage equipment next to a controversial mobile phone mast on Rodford Way, Yate.

Dodington Parish Council leafleted local residents and found that a large majority were in favour of painting the large mast a light grey to make it less obtrusive. The council approached mobile phone company O2, who are not only going to repaint the mast, but have also agreed to pay for planting trees and bushes to conceal ground-based cabinets.

“We thought it would be a good idea to involve the mast protest group and other local people in the planting” said parish councillor Paul Hulbert (Lib Dem, Dodington). “Then people will keep an eye on it and hopefully deter vandalism”.

“We’re meeting at 10 am on Saturday 10 March to plant the trees. People will need to wear wellies but tools and gloves will be provided.”

“The planting was designed with local people. Our contractor will prepare the ground the day before, so a lot of of the hard work will be done for us”.

South Glos councillor Alan Lawrance (Lib Dem, Yate) said “This mast is still very conspicuous, but the planting will soften it. Dodington Parish Council are to be congratulated.”

“We are still concerned about other masts planned in our area, and South Glos Council is reviewing its procedures for negotiating with mobile phone companies. Under existing planning laws they can put masts in even if local people object, but we want to lessen the impact of future masts”.