Cippenham 15-metre 5G mast will not be built, decides council

A 15-metre mast in Millstream Lane, Cippenham from telecommunications firm CK Hutchison was turned down this week – the second mast application to fail.

This followed a campaign by residents against its installation.

People living nearby felt strongly this would disturb wildlife, including the ducks – and would not fit in with the character of the nearby Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian homes.

Officers agreed, saying they felt the mast would (due to its size and location) result in ‘a significant visual intrusion’ that was ‘detrimental’ to the area.

They also agreed it would impact the Millstream Lane’s character, since the street features listed buildings.

The council was further concerned by that the loss of green space that would result in putting a mast there.

Officers added that the cabinets involved in the application could reduce the visibility of vehicles and pedestrians walking along Millstream Lane – causing a highway safety problem.

Despite CK Hutchison saying the 5G network rollout was ‘vital’ for Cippenham, the council concluded the plan ‘does not improve the economic, social and environmental conditions of the area.’

Julie Reid of the campaign group expressed her satisfaction that residents had got their wishes.

To view the plans, search X/00225/000 in Slough council’s planning portal

The other mast application that fell through was one based in Slough town centre.