Bolton MP writes to government on IX Wireless poles

The building of poles has already provoked an outpouring of opposition, including public protests at the town hall.

Concerns have ranged from the lack of space on pavements and the proximity of the masts to people’s houses and windows.

Bolton South East MP Yasmin Qureshi said: “The government has completely failed to act to tighten up legislation on permitted development, allowing IX Wireless to continue to run riot across our town.

“More poles have appeared recently in Farnworth and IX Wireless appear to be actively trying to make them as ugly and imposing as possible!

An anti-telecom pole protest outside Bolton Town Hall last April (Image: Henry Lisowski)

“Are there any IX Wireless customers in Bolton at all? I would genuinely like to know!”

Now Ms Qureshi has written to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lucy Frazer MP asking what the government intends to do.

She said: “In light of this, I recently wrote to the Conservative Secretary of State responsible for this again, asking for more scrutiny and more accountability.

Another protest earlier this year in Harwood (Image: Newsquest)

“I hope this time some meaningful change and scrutiny can be placed on these firms who seem to be taking advantage to make a quick buck.”

Under the present system companies have been able to put up poles without needing full planning permission, meaning that people can often be alarmed to see them appear at short notice outside their homes.

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But IX Wireless has said that it believes new poles can help to make sure the region has good digital coverage.

A statement issued earlier this year said: “We understand that while many people have welcomed investment in the roll-out of digital infrastructure, some people are unhappy with the installation of new poles.

“Where necessary we are happy to speak to residents who may feel a structure is causing an obstruction.

“We want to reiterate that the only way to level-up the region and move towards a digitally inclusive environment is to invest in a new innovative network which will give people the same opportunities as those across the country otherwise we are at risk of being left behind.”