Backlash over 5G mast plans on Deringwood Drive, Downswood, which neighbors say will ‘slash thousands’ from property prices

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There has been a public outcry over plans to place a 5G mast next to dozens of homes.

Maidstone Council has already received 73 letters of objection to a proposal to place a 15m high mast next to a bus stop on Deringwood Drive, Downswood.

In addition to bus users, the mast would most affect residents of Frithwood Close, whose houses face Deringwood Drive at this point and who, in some cases, are only yards from the proposed location.

The offer has been made by WHP Telecoms Ltd, on behalf of the Three UK network, which says a “precise location” is needed to ensure “the greatest breadth of coverage”.

Rob Hansen is one of the hardest hit homeowners. He said: “This proposal for Downswoods looks like the most ridiculous of the lot because of the location they have selected.

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“It’s right in the heart of the neighborhood and very close to houses without any potential to disguise it.

“My house is only about ten feet away, which doesn’t seem right at all.

“Thousands of pounds would be erased from the value of my property.”

“There are already older poles installed next to The Orchard Spot, which is a very short distance from where they are proposing.

“It seems that Three UK don’t want to use that spot as it would be a little less convenient for them, although the community wouldn’t have a problem with another mast going there!”

Mr. Hansen has produced a 3D rendered overlay of the mast to show his neighbors what the effect would be.

Tony Ellis of Horton Downs agreed. He told the council: “the propped mast could not be placed in a more conspicuous or intrusive location.”

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Liz Garner of Frithwood Close, Downswood, said: “The 15m high mast would be directly outside my back garden and very close to my property.

She said: “I understand 5G is the way to go and I’m a Three customer, but I don’t see how this location would be more beneficial when there are higher elevation locations within Downswood that would provide better coverage.”

She suggested that the higher ground near the new Bellway Parsonage Place housing development would be a better location.

She added: “The mast would obstruct the view from our first floor windows and be visible even when sitting in our garden.

“This is likely to cause a substantial drop in my property value. Three shouldn’t have to compensate people who are negatively affected by this?

The plans for the mast can be seen on the Maidstone council website. here.

Oliver Bryant described himself as a “hybrid worker”, dependent on internet connection for his work. He said: “When the Internet went down, the mobile Internet remained operational and allowed me to continue working.”

“For that reason alone, I approve of 5G being rolled out to Downswood. But why isn’t the mast placed behind The Orchard pub as the other two masts currently are, out of public view?

It is not right that these telecom providers are allowed to put these things anywhere and intimidate local residents into accepting them.

Clive Farrant pleaded: “On behalf of the residents who live in Downswood, please find a more appropriate and less conspicuous location for this monstrosity. This will be an absolute eyesore if it’s placed next to the bus stop.”

Hansen said: “It’s not right that these telecom providers are allowed to put these things anywhere and bully local residents into accepting them.”

Cllr Gordon Newton (Ind) representing Downsood and Otham said: “I have every sympathy for the residents. This could wipe thousands of pounds off property values.

“It’s causing a lot of pain.”

But they are far from the only ones protesting against the poles and where to place them.

KentOnline previously delved into the controversy around building 5G masts and why vital infrastructure is needed.

A Three spokesperson said: “5G rollout is vital for Downswood residents and businesses. We want to provide the community with a reliable networking experience and this site will be instrumental in making that happen.

“The masts need to be located where people will be using the service and, in many cases, in precise locations to ensure the greatest breadth of coverage. We conduct exhaustive searches and evaluate a wide range of options before submitting any planning request.”