Search on for new mast site after residents' protest

ANGRY residents stopped contractors working on a phone mast at the centre of a planning dispute.

Workmen were attempting to install wiring on the base of the mast at Brookhouse Way, Cheadle, when they were confronted by householders.

A dispute flared last month after Vodafone started building the mast, which the district council says has been refused planning permission.

But the company said it had permission to put up the 15 metre mast because it had not received an official notice of rejection, and the deadline for determining the application had passed.

But following talks between the district council and Vodafone, alternative sites are being investigated.

Vodafone has apologised for the arrival of the workmen and blamed it on an "administrative mix up".

Staffordshire Moorlands District council portfolio holder for planning property services, Stephen Ellis, said: "It would seem that there was a breakdown in communications.

"Nevertheless, Vodafone has apologised for any inconvenience caused and has again undertaken to carry out no further work while discussions continue with the council on identifying a more suitable location for the base station and mast."