20-metre phone mast rejected by West Berkshire Council in Bradfield Southend

West Berkshire Council has refused an application for a 20-metre phone mast and ancillary equipment in Bradfield Southend.

The application – submitted by Three UK in November – sought prior permission to set up telecommunications infrastructure at the junction of Heath Road and South End Road.

But concerns were raised over the proposed site's proximity to housing and schools, insufficient street lighting and the potential harm to the area's visual appeal.

"There are far more unobtrusive places to put the mast that would be out of sight of the road and houses," wrote Bill Wyatt.

Other residents questioned whether a less intrusive location for the mast had been considered.

Sally Livesey added: "Surely a more discrete location can be found where a mast would not be so visible?"

The council rejected the proposal due to "its design, height and bulk", which it deemed "very harmful to the visual amenity and the appearance of the surrounding area".

While the development would be positive for economic growth, the council ruled the benefits do not outweigh the substantial harm to the character and appearance of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.