Farnworth councillor and residents unhappy after telecoms pole put up

An IX Wireless pole which was fitted on Mayfield Drive, Farnworth, near junction of Piggott Street is causing problems for residents as they state it is "monstrous".

The council has been dealing with many enquiries regarding poles across the borough and have been working on an FAQ page that explains the rules around telegraph poles and other equipment, which will go live on their website at a later date.

Speaking on behalf of residents, Cllr Paul Sanders said: “The sudden appearance of this 20m telecoms pole has come as a massive shock to residents of Mayfield Drive and the surrounding area.

“Many are calling it 'monstrous'.

“This residential area is mainly bungalows with gardens.

“What is really upsetting residents is that no-one was consulted or warned by the telecoms provider.

The pole is situated on Mayfield Drive, Farnworth, near junction of Piggott Street (Image: Cllr Paul Sanders)

“Residents on the whole say they are not against improving the technology which we have all come to rely on, but pavements being dug for fibre cabling one month, 'wild west' style wooden poles being erected shortly afterwards in the same areas and now these supersize poles appearing out of the blue, are frustrating our communities.

“The Communications Act 2003 affords permitted development right to companies, but residents feel that the system isn't fair and believe they should have a say on such matters.

“This 20m pole has been reported to the Bolton Council's planning enforcement team for review and for any relevant legal advice.”

In response to the complaints Cllr Sanders has expressed, a spokesperson for Bthe council said: “We have received a report and officers will investigate to ensure the installation is in line with national planning rules.”

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The council has also issued information regarding the poles across Bolton.

Here is its provisional list of FAQ questions:

Why has a new telegraph pole or mast been installed on my street?

A number of new telegraph poles have been installed across the borough as telecoms companies work to deliver faster broadband to homes in Bolton.

Do companies need planning permission to install poles and masts?

Under a planning law known as “permitted development”, companies can install communications equipment up to 15m tall without first getting permission from the council.

Why were residents not consulted about the new poles?

Under permitted development planning laws, companies do not need planning permission to install telegraph poles or communications masts up to 15m tall.

Because of this, there is no legal requirement for a consultation period with local residents or businesses.

What powers does the council have to prevent or remove new poles?

Because poles under 15m are covered by permitted development, the council has limited powers to stop new ones from being installed.

However, if the poles are blocking the highway or driveways then the council can take enforcement action.

Why are companies using poles instead of underground cables?

Attaching broadband cables to telegraph poles, means the companies can provide internet without having to dig up roads, driveways, or front gardens.

Why is this happening now?

The installations are part of work being undertaken by a number of communications companies to improve Bolton’s digital infrastructure.