TEVERSON BACKS TRURO MAST ACTION GROUP

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 16th Apr 2009

Plans by mobile giant Vodafone to build a new mast in Truro have been condemned by Lib Dem Prospective Candidate Terrye Teverson, who has being working with people living near the proposed site to stop the development going ahead.

Planning for the mast, on grounds outside Truro Rugby Club, was originally opposed by Carrick District Council, but earlier this year Vodafone were granted permission on appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

Residents living near the site on St Clements Hill have now formed the Mast Action Group with more than 100 households signed up to fight against the mast being erected - which could be as early as May.

"While local residents are primarily concerned about the potential health risks associated with such masts, they are also worried about the proposed site which is literally feet from one elderly couple's home." Mrs Teverson commented.

"Residents believe that Vodafone want to site a mast in an unreasonable position, close to homes, schools and a children's centre. They believe that Vodafone need this because a very small number of homes currently have no 3G service."

She added: "It does seem ridiculous for a huge company like Vodafone to go ahead with these plans. The original planning application was turned down by the local council, opposed by residents and generally thought to be in a very unsuitable location - yet Vodafone are steamrollering ahead without a thought for the local residents who are affected by all this."

Mrs Teverson has been working closely with local MP Matthew Taylor on behalf of the Mast Action Group. Mr Taylor is contacting Vodafone to find out exactly what area of Truro is currently without 3G signal and how many homes this mast will serve.