A council's objections to a new mobile phone mast are set to fall on deaf ears.

Hutchison 3G UK has applied to erect a 20m mast on land next to the University of Sussex sports pitches at Falmer.

The mast would be 300m from the nearest home and shielded by a line of trees.

Falmer Parish Council said it would be visible from several vantage points and could impact on the "health and well-being" of students and villagers.

Lewes District Council planning officers, however, say it is suitable for approval.

A spokesman said: "There is a hole in the Hutchison 3G network coverage along a stretch of the A27 from west of Falmer to Kingston roundabout and the University of Sussex campus.

"The applicant has provided details of alternative sites considered for the location of the mast.

"These included Falmer station and the adjacent builders' yard, Falmer Depot, the Swan Inn and the University of Sussex.

"Each of these was discounted for justifiable reasons.

"Given the nearest residential property is approximately 300m from the application site, it is considered the concerns about the impact of the mast on the health of nearby residents are insufficient to warrant refusing planning permission."

The decision rests with the district council's northern area plans committee, which meets on Tuesday at Pelham House, Lewes.