Phone mast to be located near school (From Barry And District News)

Phone mast to be located near school

A PROPOSED mobile phone mast in Barry has caused uproar because it will be located opposite a school.

The mast - to service the latest 3G phones - is set to be put inside the grounds of a reservoir on Merthyr Dyfan Road. If the plan is passed the mast will be next to the entrance of Bryn Hafren Girls School.

Headmaster Phil Whitcombe said: "I am very worried about the plan to have a new mast so close to the school. I am not against mobile phones because we all use them but I am concerned about where the transmitters are placed.

"I want a reassurance that there is not a long term risk with the children. Why does this structure need to be so close to a school? Ironically children are some of the main users of mobiles as they want the newest phones and the most up to date technology. But I want some assurance that the mast would be safe.

"The school governors have also expressed their concern at the affect of the transmitter on the children's health."

Barry Town Councillor, Keith Lewis said: "There is another plan to put a mast on the golf course nearby. If both are passed then the children will be sandwiched between two phone structures. What that will mean for the children in the future is anybody's guess.

"I can't quite understand why the mast has to be in that spot so close to the school and a large residential area.

"I've spoken to residents living on the road and they are against the idea. Colcot Residents Assoc-iation have written a letter objecting to the plan."