Downpatrick mast a blot on landscape

SIR, — The new telecommunications mast erected at the Strangford Road in Downpatrick is everything people expected it would be — a blot on the landscape.

How planners can justify masts in built up areas close to homes and government buildings is really beyond me.

This particular mast is out of keeping with this part of Downpatrick and while residents and local politicians kicked up a fuss when the planning application was lodged, it was inevitable their concerns would fall on deaf ears.

While the jury is still out on whether these telecommunications masts pose a health risk, should planners not err on the side of caution?

There are many elevated areas surrounding the Strangford Road which are not close to housing. Why was it that these particular sites were not considered acceptable for a telecommunications mast?

Responsibility for some aspects of planning will come under local authority control when Down and Newry and Mourne councils merge in 2015 as part of the review of public administration.

Politicians should at this stage I would assume have more of a say on planning issues. But during the interim, does that mean their the voice on key planning matters will continue to be ignored?

It would appear that the proliferation of telecommunication masts across the district will increase significantly over the next few years, further blighting our beautiful district.

Masts may well be a necessary evil in a 21st century increasingly being driven by technology, but more thought needs to be given about where they can be located. Beside residential housing is simply not acceptable.

Yours etc.,

CONCERNED,

Strangford Road,

Downpatrick.