We'll picket pub, say anti-mast protesters

Leading campaigner Judith McGinnity says the health of residents in Athelstan Road could be at risk if the antennae are erected on top of the Athelstan Arms in Cranleigh Road.

The application for three telecommunications antennae, by Hutchison, will come before the planners on September 30.

Around 46 residents of Athelstan Road have signed a petition against the proposal.

A second petition from residents of Merrivale Avenue containing nine signatures has also been sent to the council.

Mrs McGinnity, a mother of three, said: "My mum died five months ago from a brain tumour. She lived directly opposite the water tower in Southbourne where there are a number of masts so it's quite personal for me.

"There are 15 children living in this road and the Athelstan is a family-friendly pub with half of it designated for children.

"If it goes ahead I'm going to go to Eldridge Pope and say: 'We will picket your pub and hold demonstrations outside'.

"If it happens I will move. I love my house and the people round here. But I won't go without a fight."

Resident Don Bailey, 46, said: "It is supposed to be a family-friendly pub but putting up this mast could affect everybody's health.

"We all have mobile phones but that's voluntary. This is involuntary. I just don't think they should put it here in a densely populated area."

Planning officer Phil Janaway said: "We have been told without any shadow of a doubt by government that health is not a matter for planning.

"Evidence shows there is no health risk with these antennae. If we turned the application down for health risks the applicant could appeal.

"We can only reject it on the grounds of siting and appearance."

Steve Best, operations manager for Eldridge Pope, said: "I wasn't aware it had got to this stage and as a matter of urgency will be investigating.

"We wouldn't want to do anything to upset our customers. At the end of the day they are our bread and butter."