MOBILE network operator EE is looking to install a mast at a fire station as part of its roll-out of upgraded coverage.
The telecommunications business has asked BCP Council for the go-ahead to install the 19-metre-tall monopole on private land at Hamworthy fire station in Blandford Road.
Jamaal Hafiz, of Telent Technology Services on behalf of EE, warned that should the proposal not be given permission, "the area will be left with significantly reduced coverage or no coverage whatsoever in the future”.
EE has said the new mast would replace existing infrastructure about 20-metres away and will form part of its emergency services communications network for all blue light services in Hamworthy.
Mr Hafiz said the mast would not only provide service voice calls but will include provision for 3G and 4G connection.
He said: “The mast height has been kept to the minimum required to ensure operational efficiency - a structure with an overall height of 19 meters is needed in this locality because of the surrounding clutter.
“Consideration has been given to the design of the mast and this is reflected in the standard design, which is frequently used within residential areas.”
The mast is being proposed at the fire tower, which has is no longer in use following an extension of the fire station.
Mr Hafiz said it means there is “no way of bringing this back operational and as such, the intention of the landowner is to remove the redundant tower for redevelopment”.
He added: “Whilst the new mast would introduce a new ground-based vertical structure, the replacement mast represents the most sensitive possible design solution capable of hosting the required apparatus in this regard, this is following early objection received from nearby residents on the initial lattice tower design proposal.
“Following this the operator has decided to opt for a change in design to a monopole which would be more in keeping and help better assimilate into the area rather than the bulkier lattice tower that was initially proposed.
“It should be noted that this search area is difficult for the operator given highly dense residential area.”
BCP Council will decide on the application in due course, following a public consultation period.
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