Perry Vale residents living beside a proposed site for a new 5G mast are calling for the plans to be scrapped.  

Telecommunications company Hutchinson 3G UK, which owns Three, is planning to erect an 18-metre 5G mast and three cabinets on the corner of Blythe Vale, Bell Green and Perry Rise. 

Hundreds of thousands of 5G masts are being put up across the country to enable phone users to access faster connectivity.  

The Government announced in July it was relaxing planning permission requirements around the masts to speed up the implementation of the 5G network. 

It means firms do not need to get full planning permission anymore.  

As a result, Three has permitted development rights to build a mast, but is seeking confirmation from the council as to whether the proposals are acceptable before work can start.  

The council is consulting with residents until November 8 on the proposals.  

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But some locals have come together to oppose the plans, which they say are “not in keeping” with the area.  

On behalf of those opposing the mast, Blythe Vale resident Rebecca Crawshaw said: “The proposal to install the mast is completely out of keeping with the character of the local area.  

“Blythe Vale is a beautiful Victorian Street steeped in local history. The pole would be taller than four double-decker buses and tower over local homes and buildings.  

“Furthermore, the cabinets will block access to the pavement for wheelchairs and buggies.  

“The proposed mast would be less than 200 metres from two local nurseries and a primary school and within five metres of many homes. I urge local residents to view the plans and make their views known.” 

A spokesperson for Three said as “digital consumption habits continue to change”  it is “critical” to start the groundwork now to “keep everyone connected”.

 “5G will enable business and residents in Lewisham to get faster and more reliable network coverage both now and in the future.  

“We know that over time, as more services go online and digital consumption habits continue to change, our network will need more capacity in Lewisham to meet demand.  

“It’s absolutely critical that we start the groundwork now so that we can keep everyone connected. 

“All mast applications Three submits are designed with accessibility for all in mind and we will work with the highway authority to ensure there is the required pavement width to ensure all users have access,” he said.