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06
Jan 2023
Plans for two masts to meet 'acute need' for 5G in Harrogate
Plans have been submitted to Harrogate Borough Council for two 5G mobile phone masts that would boost coverage in the town.
5G is the quickest mobile internet connection available and offers up to 20 times faster speeds than 4G.
However, the town is currently poorly served by 5G signal, particularly on its southern side.
Reading-based telecoms firm Cignal Infrastructure Ltd hopes to erect one 15m mast by the Co-Op on Otley Road as it says there is an “acute need” for coverage in the area.
The company also hopes to erect a 20m mast at Granby Park.
A planning document submitted on behalf of the company says the masts would help boost businesses and communities in Harrogate. It says:
Read more:
- New 5G masts proposed for Harlow Hill water tower
- BT plans three advertising screens in central Harrogate
The rollout of 5G has led to fears the frequencies emitted from the masts could be dangerous to humans. But during tests in 2020, regulator Ofcom found “no identifiable risks”.
The tests took place in 16 locations across the UK and measured the strength of the electromagnetic field (EMF).
Ofcom said the emissions at each site were a “tiny fraction” of the maximum levels set out in international guidelines.
Last year, the council approved plans to install 5G masts on Harlow Hill’s Edwardian water tower.
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