Plans for a 5G mast in Marlow have been met with fierce objections from residents in the town.

Buckinghamshire Council is still in deliberation over the application, which has been submitted by CK Hutchinson.

If successful, a 15-metre-tall monopole will be constructed on Marlow Road at the junction of Sandygate Road.

The company says the 5G mast will help provide vital improved network coverage and capacity which has become particularly important since Covid-19, but some residents are not happy. 

Dozens have objected to the plans with many complaining about the location of the proposed site being close to nearby schools.

An objection was submitted on behalf of the Board of Governors at Marlow C of E Infant School by Robert McFarlane.

The objection raised concerns over the size and location, traffic safety, student health and the necessity of the mast

Part of the objections reads: “As young children are more susceptible to radiofrequency radiation effects than adults, we believe that network operators and the council planning team should exhaust all other possible locations before committing to placing a transmitter in close proximity to a significant number of infant-age children.”

Julian Knight also objected saying it the mast would be "completely out of place".

he wrote: “This is a densely housed area of low-rise buildings, and a 15 metre mast would be completely out of place.

“The proposed site is a small area on an already congested corner of a busy road - particularly busy at school drop-off and pick-up times.

“Placing a mast and associated equipment here would potentially endanger pedestrians by restricting pavement space and limiting visibility to the main road.”

Ms S Weavers labelled the plans as "insanity".

She said: “Putting a monstrosity like this so close to an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty is complete insanity.

“It is completely out of character with the local area which is dominated by low level housing.

"It would tower above the natural surroundings on the corner of a small close containing bungalows housing the elderly, and also in close proximity to a primary and nursery school.”

Johanna Snell claims it is "unacceptable" residents were not given notification of the proposals. 

She wrote: "I object to this 5G mast as I live very close by with two young children who also go to the schools that are very close by.

"No notification of this potential mast is unacceptable.

"Why on earth the smallest patch of land in a residential area with an infant school along the road was chosen I have no idea?"

The application has received two letters of support claiming that mobile reception in Marlow needs improvement.

Mr Michael Brustinow wrote: “Mobile phone reception in Marlow, especially around this area, is abysmal at best therefore any improvement in network will be of huge benefit to all.

“With ever more devices around the house needing internet an increase in capacity and speed that 5G promises is an investment into Marlow’s future.”

Philip James added: “Much needed and happy to support. Mobile reception in Marlow is historically poor so this will hopefully improve this situation.”