A planning application has been submitted, signalling the possible arrival of a 5G mast in a residential neighbourhood.

The telecommunication structure - which would be 20 metres tall - is earmarked for a site next to the Post Office on Newtown Green, Ashford.

The mast is set to feature six antennae, and will be flanked by three single-storey structures for power provision.

Being proposed by Mobile Broadband Network Limited (MBNL), a document written in support of the plan reads: "As part of [our] continued network improvement programme, there is a specific requirement for a new installation at this location to provide 5G services, ensuring that this residential area of Newtown and the wider area of Ashford International, Ashford Designer Outlet, the railway line and wider area maintains access to the latest technologies."

The company also highlighted the coronavirus pandemic as creating "unparalleled demand and pressure" on Hutchison 3G UK, which will be operating the mast, so new infrastructure was essential.

A range of unfounded conspiracy theories were associated with 5G, with some claiming it transmitted Covid-19 and weakened immune systems. The theories are believed to be behind a number of mast fires across the country last year.

Aside from these debunked theories, the design and sheer height of them - in the case of the Ashford proposal, just under the height of five double-decker buses - has led to opposition.

Residents in Herne Bay branded plans for a 25-metre mast "a monstrosity" while in Canterbury neighbours are complaining over two proposed mast sites, with some saying they may move house because of the planned structure.

So far, no Newtown Green residents have attached a comment on the Ashford plans.

Comments can be made on the proposal until February 26 by searching 21/00173/AS on the Ashford Borough Council planning portal.

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