PLANS for a 65-foot high 5G mobile phone mast in the Pill area of Newport have been lodged with the city council.

Mobile service provider Three is behind plans to build the structure on Commercial Road, at the junction with Alexandra Road.

The scheme is part of plans to enhance 5G coverage across Newport, and it promises to provide a faster service with the ability to handle more data.

MORE NEWS:

A planning application says there is an “acute need for a new mast” to improve 5G coverage in the area.

It says the height of the mast, measuring 20-metres, has been “kept down to the absolute minimum” to provide the ‘essential’ service.

The site has been chosen as it will not impede pedestrians or the safety of passing motorists.

Trees also block off the mast from the view of houses in Courtybella Terrace and Commercial Road, while the application also says there are several tall street lights in the area.

The mast would include a wraparound cabinet and two further equipment cabinets.

“We consider the development complies with both central government and local planning policy guidance where the underlying aim is to provide an efficient and competitive telecommunication system for the benefit of the community while minimising visual impact,” the planning application adds.

“Taking into account the factors of technical constraints, available sites and planning constraints we consider that this site and design clearly represents the optimum environmental solution.”

Three has moved to reassure people that 5G technology is safe after masts were attacked following false information suggesting a link with coronavirus.

Health experts have also provided reassurance about the wireless technology.

Newport City Council will assess the application in the coming months.