MP demands removal of 'monstrous' Lincoln phone mast
Local MP Andrew Smith has supported calls for the removal of a mobile telephone mast from Lincoln College's sports ground.
The politician's intervention comes in the week after The Oxford Student exclusively revealed the existence of the crudely disguised mast, the second structure of its kind to appear on the college's sports ground.
Smith, who represents Oxford East, said: "I've been to look at the mast for myself, it's a real monstrosity." He criticised the mast's exterior which is designed to make it look like a tree but fails to provide a suitable camouflage.
Peter Morton, a member of Smith's constituency staff, told The Oxford Student action is now being taken in an attempt to get the mast removed.
"We brought the matter to the attention of the Council and action is being taken as the phone company has broken one of the terms of their planning permission," he said.
The mast's controversial appearance is the cause of council action as samples of the material used were not submitted, as is required by law.
Morton would not comment on the college's lack of consultation with the JCR, saying: "We're just dealing with the Council; we're not sure what happened within the college."
Smith will be at the sports ground at 10.30am this Saturday to talk with residents and discuss further action that might be taken.
20th Jan 2005