PLANNERS say a 5G mast is being put up after permission was refused.

Three UK applied to site the mast at Broadway Lane, Bournemouth, and work is being done by subcontractor Great British Communications.

The council reportedly took more than the allotted eight weeks to decide on the planning application, which was submitted on June 21.

However, as of August 16 the council planning application says permission for the works have been refused.

Despite this, works have gone ahead for the 5G mast which was listed as a prior approval procedure.

A surveyor for CK Hutchison Networks (UK) Ltd (Three UK) proposed an 18m pole with a wraparound cabinet at its base and additional equipment cabinets.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “We can confirm that planning permission for the 5G mast at Broadway Lane in Bournemouth was refused on August 16, 2021, adding: “Our planning department is currently investigating why the operator believes they were able to begin with their installation works. We are however eager to work with the operator to determine whether there has been any breach of planning control and to resolve this issue as soon as possible.’’

Muscliff and Strouden Park councillor Lisa Northover said: “My understanding is that the provider considers the decision to refuse the application was made after the allocated number of days and this could mean that it is not enforceable. I hope that BCP and Three will work together to resolve the situation as soon as possible.”

A Three spokesperson said: “5G rollout is vital for residents and businesses in Bournemouth. We want to offer the community a reliable network experience and this site will be critical to making that happen.”