MORE than 100 people turned out to voice their anger at plans to build a phone mast near a Chester park.
Protesters say the 18-metre structure, which has been slated for a site off Chester Road, near Caldy Valley Nature Park, is too close to homes and schools.
They also claim the proposal by mobile phone giants Vodafone and O2 is “overwhelmingly” opposed by residents and councillors in the Great Boughton and Huntington areas and have vowed to fight it at all costs.
Resident Lisa Rowe, who turned out to the protest, said: “I have grave concerns regarding the validity of this application and feel there are so many errors that it should now be overseen by the planning regulatory board or another suitable external regulatory board.”
Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC) Cllr Pamela Hall, of the Boughton Heath ward, said: “This is an unacceptable site.
“The nature park is locally cherished as an important open space and the community has invested much into the reserve over the past few years.
“In addition, it is in a highly residential area and close to a local school and a mast would completely change the look of the area.”
Cllr Mark Williams, chairman of the Huntington Parish Council, said: “Caldy Valley is an important oasis and one we must protect at all costs.
“All local councillors object, as do two parish councils, but we need our argument strengthened by members of the public officially adding their names to those objecting.”
Cllr Keith Board, of the Vicars Cross and Boughton Heath ward, said: “The planning law, as we know, gives the phone company much scope in these matters, so if we are to stop it we must show a united front.
“Please email or write to the council, your councillors or use the council’s own website to object.”
CWaC spokesman Ian Callister confirmed the authority had received an application for prior approval from the two telecoms companies.
People can voice their views at www.cheshirewestandchester.
gov.uk/planningapplications.