I AM objecting to another application to install a phone mast.

I object to the application by Vodaphone to erect a 12m phone mast with three antenna in Farnworth.

My reasons are that this conflicts with the Stewart report recommendations that such installations should not be erected next to schools.

This application asks for an installation within 200 yards of Highfield CP School and 300 yards of Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School.

As an elected member, I have been consulted, but Highfield School has not.

I must also point out that the proposed site is 60 yards from the Plodder Lane Conservative Club, where many functions, such as wedding receptions and christening parties, take place.

It is also within 300 yards of Highfield Community Centre, which hosts toddler groups and many other child-related groups, within 200 yards of Marsh Lane Library, and also within a built-up, residential area.

The applicant has considered other sites and has rejected them all for different reasons.

One reason for rejecting a site at the junction of Marsh Lane and Highfield Road is that it was close to a school. What, dare I ask, is that all about?

I would also ask the committee to consider adopting a policy of precautionary principle.

The purpose of the precautionary principle is to take a decision in spite of scientific uncertainty about the nature and extent of the risk. In other words, it aims to avoid "paralysis by analysis".

In plain English, the council would not approve applications to install any mobile phone mast or similar equipment such as antennae for wireless networking until scientists have agreed that these types of installations will not present a risk to people through electromagnetic radiation.

Councillor Carl Dennis

Harper Green Ward