I represent the interest of a great number of residents who have learnt that Hutchison 3G UK intend to apply for planning permission to erect a mobile phone mast and base station in Windmill Drive, Westdene.

The majority of us welcome technological advance and recognise mobile phone service providers have to recover the massive fees paid to the Government for their services.

However, in this instance, we feel they are ignoring the interests of the environment and community they intend to serve.

The proposed location is within the boundary of the proposed South Downs National Park and in an area of outstanding natural beauty and a site of conservation interest.

We have asked for the support of Natural England and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

We have no idea how Brighton and Hove City Council will consider the application but trust it will respect the local plan requirements and the designation of the area.

As in so many cases, it is up to the local community to fend for itself.

To this end, we would ask if The Argus can support us in trying to have the application rejected or ensuring the council and Natural England are held accountable for their decisions.

Hutchison's agents have only advised a few residences directly opposite the site but there are more than three residences in Westdene.

Within 1.5 miles of the proposed site there are 31 masts. It seems the city has become a forest of masts that mobile phone companies relentlessly try to erect.

With an attempt to site a mast that, if approved, will just lead to more masts in the national park, it is clear commercial gain has no interest in the preservation of the environment or in the community.

The council has a clear policy on the grounds for approving or rejecting a mast application.

Surely it is time to consider a policy about the number of masts, the need to re-use or share sites and for companies to prove beyond doubt that a mast is even needed.

We know The Argus has at its heart the interests of the city and the community. We would be grateful if you could support us in protecting the national park and ceasing the proliferation of masts that are being erected daily.

Hutchison intends to act quickly and to obtain approval before too much adverse reaction prevails.

  • Lee M Wares, Windmill Drive, Brighton