RESIDENTS in Bradford on Avon have raised a banner to show their opposition to plans to build a telephone mast next to a conservation area.

People living near the top of Masons Lane have united against plans submitted by Galliford to install a new 15-metre telephone communications mast next to the current BT Phone Hub opposite Christchurch.

The group has now hung a banner by the site, in clear view of residents and commuters.

Marion Collett, of Masons Lane, said: “Bradford on Avon is a historic town, we don’t want something like this here. There are plenty of other places they could put a mast, but near a residential area is not the right place.

“There are already a lot of things going on to improve the town, like trying to stop HGVs and a 20 is Plenty campaign.”

In February, the group started an online petition and handed out hard copies at The Castle Inn at Mount Pleasant. So far the petition has gained about 270 signatures.

Residents have also raised a red balloon at the site to show people just how high the mast would stand if planning consent is given.

Gisela Norman, of Winsley Road, said: “It is going to be an absolute eyesore. The area is an oasis in a conservation area and I cannot believe they would want to build a mast there. There is also the worry about the health implications and the impact it may have on children, old people and people living near the site.

"The World Health Organisation has said that the impact of the waves could be cancer causing.”

The campaign has also gained the support of MP Michelle Donelan and members of Bradford on Avon Town Council.

Councillor Pam Hyde said: "There are certainly other places where the mast could go. The health implications are also concerning – I use my phone hands free now. We all need a phone signal, so you cannot be hypocritical, but near a residential site is not the best place."

Despite being approached several times by the Wiltshire Times, Galliford declined to comment on its plans.

To sign the petition search for Bradford on Avon on change.org