A prior approval application has been submitted to install a 20-metre-high phone mast in Twickenham.

The proposal from Virgin Media O2 seeks to install a 20-metre-tall 5G telecommunications mast, complete with antennas and supporting equipment, on the pavement at the north-east junction of Staines Road and Brinsworth Close, Twickenham.

On behalf of Virgin Media O2, WHP Telecoms Ltd said in its application: "As part of VMO2's (Virgin Media O2's) continued network improvement programme, there is a specific requirement for continued and improved coverage and capacity at this location to ensure that the latest high-quality service provision is provided in this area of Twickenham.  

"The network coverage is currently provided by a mobile base station that uses 3G technology and VMO2, along with all of the Other Licensed Operators (OLOs), are in the process of switching off the 3G network in order to allow for continued improvement to the 4G and 5G networks." 

The proposed 5G phone mast next to the existing lamp post (credit: Planning application).

The applicant added: "While upgrading existing 3G sites to 4G or 5G service is the ideal solution, in this instance it has not been possible and VMO2 are currently facing challenges in upgrading their existing infrastructure in the area.  

"Due to time pressures associated with these works and the requirement for 3G to be shut off by the end of the year, VMO2 are having to progress a new replacement Streetworks site in parallel to the upgrade proposal as a contingency, should no upgrade path be achievable on the existing site." 

The application is yet to be decided. To find out more click here. 

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