City Hall approves new 5G mast near Eaton Park in Norwich...

City Hall approves new 5G mast near Eaton Park in Norwich

Efforts to modernise Norwich’s mobile network have taken a step forward after City Hall approved the installation of

a new 65ft 5G mast.

Telecoms firm Cornerstone received permission to erect the mast, which will host six antennas, a dish and four

cabinets on South Park Avenue, near Eaton Park.

The installation aims to improve mobile connectivity in the area, but not without controversy.

The mast will be located on South Park Avenue’s southern pavement, across from Eaton Park, which is classed as a

Grade II park, and near Colman Junior School.

Conservation organisations including Historic England and the Gardens Trust expressed worries about its visual

impact on the historic park and surrounding character, despite the fact that Highways and arboricultural officers did

not protest.

The mast would probably be visible above the park’s trees and hedges, particularly during the winter, according to

Historic England, which also stated that “the proposed mast could cause harm to the significance of the grade II

registered park and garden by impacting its setting.”

Issues surrounding health risks and the mast’s closeness to the school were also examined in the proposal.

Despite these reservations, planning officials think the public benefit outweighs the aesthetic impact.

The significance of expanded 5G coverage for digital connection and economic growth was emphasised by the council.

Despite being informed of the idea, Colman Junior School did not reply.

Additionally, the applicant supplied ICNIRP certification, attesting to the mast’s compliance with global safety

regulations pertaining to non-ionizing radiation protection.

The mast and cabinets will be painted green to help blend into the surrounding tree line and though some views

from Eaton Park will include the mast, it is considered that overall harm is limited.

“A high-quality and dependable communications infrastructure is essential for economic growth and social well-

being,” the planning officer assigned to the case by Norwich City Council came to the conclusion.

“In this instance, it is believed that the placement of the 20-meter pole and cabinets will cause less than significant

damage to the registered park and garden, which is grade II listed.

“However, this harm is outweighed by the public benefits, including the provision of high-quality and reliable

communication infrastructure such as 5G to the surrounding area, which will also enhance economic viability.”