Friends of the Ochils Newsletter 21: Autumn 2002
Mast aftermath
SHORTLY AFTER THE DUST had settled on our skirmish with Vodafone anent their proposal to erect a phone mast beside Dumyat Farm (see the previous newsletter), I was invited by Stirling Council's planning department to attend a "telecommunications seminar" as it was rather grandly described. Balancing two hats (FotO and Logie Community Council) on my adequately proportioned head, I joined a modest throng in the splendid council chambers and, by the seminar's end, it was generally agreed that the exercise had been a considerable success.
Representatives from seven mobile phone operators (including Vodafone) attended and two of their number fronted a presentation on matters connected with the industry. A spirited and lengthy question-and-answer session followed - and this, for me, proved to be the highlight of the evening. Opinions and concerns expressed from our side of the table were responded to frankly and informatively from the other. So let's have a look at some of that which came out of this productive seminar.
It was agreed by all that better communication is paramount and, additionally, that operators would seek the views of relevant community councils prior to planning application submission. It was further agreed that communities, with their local knowledge, could actually help operators to find alternative mast sites in their areas. To this end, all the operators said they were happy to be contacted directly. (I have a list of names and addresses.)
Technology and design changes constantly, and all the operators continue to seek ways of making equipment smaller and slimmer. Reference was made to tree masts which, although not perfect, represent a marked improvement on the usual latticework monstrosities. Unfortunately, the former are not appropriate in all circumstances and are not conducive to mast-sharing - a practice which is destined to become more widespread. When asked whether an increase in the number of masts required was likely, it was confirmed that with the exception of Hutchison 3G (a new operator just starting up), the demand for new masts is generally levelling out. Interestingly, a requirement to remove defunct apparatus already exists within present legislation.
Ever conscious of the bad press they frequently attract, all the operators demonstrated a willingness to jump through hoops in order to be friendly and cooperative. Indeed, when it was suggested that the telecommunications industry should get its act together and engage with actual communities (not just community councils and planners) with regard to the technology and its needs in a clear and easily understood format, thus diminishing the deep suspicion in which it is held by much of the public, the operators' enthusiasm for such a simple idea was virtually boundless. So, there's a thought for a future FotO AGM topic.
At the end of the seminar, I had a word with Vodafone's representative about the Dumyat Farm mast. As well as expressing contrition over the whole episode, he assured me that they're now looking at a site well away from the face of the Ochils. So well done FotO - and well done those who supported us.
For more information and updates, visit: http://www.mobilemastinfo.com/