The prospect of a mobile phone mast is looming large for residents in Doddinghurst and Kelvedon Hatch.
The telecommunications giant Orange has applied to Brentwood Borough Council for a 15 metre monopole mast at Place Farm in Place Farm Lane, Doddinghurst.
But the application has been met with strong opposition from residents who say they are already living under the shadow of the towering landmark mast in nearby Kelvedon Hatch.
Sixteen residents have sent their own 'text message' by voicing their objections in writing to Brentwood Council planning chiefs.
Masts up to 15 metres do not need planning permission though local authorities give determination which can influence their siting and appearance.
Planning chiefs can refuse larger masts solely on the grounds of visual appearance. They are not allowed to turn masts down for health reasons because the Government has ruled they must be satisfied with their safety providing they meet guidelines.
But one resident stated in writing: "We are already have a large tower in Kelvedon Hatch. We do not need a smaller but equally ugly structure just down the road."
One father stated: "We have two young children, as do several neighbours and we are very worried about their health and being exposed to any unnecessary radiation."
A statement issued by Orange stressed there was no "conclusive evidence" linking exposure to radio waves and transmitter masts to long term public health risks.
"A typical Orange transmitter site operates at levels many hundreds of times below national and international guidelines, in areas where the general public would have access."
A mast could also spring up at Putwell Farm, Brook Street, Brentwood, where O2 UK Limited has applied for a 22 metre high lattice mast with six antennae and five dishes.
Published Thursday August 22, 2002
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