People power victory over phone mast plan
PEOPLE power has helped overturn a controversial proposal to install a phone mast at a sports club.
Blackstones Sports and Social Club in Stamford has decided to pull the plug on O2's bid to install an 18m high mast at its ground, despite the phone giant securing planning permission.
Negotiations had been ongoing since last year and the proposal looked likely to go ahead, but a petition signed by more than 200 people forced the club into a rethink.
Now the club, which would have secured funding from O2, has told the firm it does not want the mast installed at its site.
Chairman Eric Marvel insisted the club had always taken an open-minded approach to the proposal and said good relations with the community were a vital consideration.
He added: "We've reviewed the situation and in light of that we've decided to pull the plug.
"We don't want to upset the neighbours and their concerns were taken into account."
Planning permission was secured from South Kesteven District Council earlier this year after a tight councillors' vote of eight-seven in favour. The mast would have been moved from New College Stamford to replaced a 15m floodlight at the club.
But residents living nearby expressed grave concerns about the impact of the development, including worries about perceived health implications, along with the visual impact and detriment to house prices.
More than 200 names were signed on the petition calling on the club to decline the proposal, which was later handed over to its committee.
Campaigner John Carbutt, a campaigner from Berrybut Way, said: "I'm very pleased and delighted. A lot of people were really concerned and worried about this and I'm glad they've listened to us."
David Farrer, 59, of Woodhead Close, added: "We would like to thank Blackstones for listening to the feelings of residents, as well as the people who signed the petition."
An O2 spokesman said its mast would be staying with New College Stamford for the time being and that the firm is reviewing its options.
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Weather for Stamford
Monday 28 May 2012
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Temperature: 11 C to 25 C
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