Plans to install a 5G mast on Caerleon High Street have been refused by the local planning authority.

Earlier this year, WHP Telecoms Limited submitted a prior approval application on behalf of CK Hutchison Networks (UK) Ltd – a Reading based firm.

According to documents, they had hoped to install a 15-metre mast, with associated cabinets at the base.

The mast would be use to provide the local area with 5G connectivity.

Plans show that the mast would have been installed near to the Caerleon Memorial Garden, in the heart of the historic Gwent town.

But, this proposal was met with some opposition, with concerns regarding the location and appearance raised.

As part of the application, Newport City Council historic consultation officer Joe Hotson was approached in respect of the application.

He said: “The site is located in a particularly sensitive historic area.

“It is prominently situated within the Caerleon Conservation Area, in front of the War Memorial Drinking Fountain (listed at grade 2), and its surrounding small park.

“As such, It would have a major negative impact on the character of the conservation area and the setting of this listed structure.”

Cadw also raised concerns, revealing that they had “significant concerns about the impact the above proposals will have”.

Continuing, the Cadw representative said: “As such it is our opinion that this prior notification should not be accepted, as it appears that the erection of the proposed mast would be contrary to Planning Policy Wales as insufficient information on the impact of the proposed mast on the designated historic assets has been provided.”

No heritage impact statement was submitted alongside the planning application.

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What was the outcome?

Ultimately, Newport City Council’s planning office refused the prior approval application for the 5G mast.

Explaining their reasoning, a planning officer wrote: “The proposal, by reason of its siting and appearance, will have a significant adverse impact upon visual and public amenity, designated historic assets and fails to preserve the character and appearance of the Caerleon conservation area.

“This is contrary to policies GP6 (Quality of Design), CE4 (Historic Landscapes, Parks, Gardens and Battlefields), CE6 (Archaeology) and CE7 (Conservation Areas) of the Newport Local Development Plan 2011 – 2026.”