A list of all the telecommunications masts in Hertsmere is to be compiled by the borough council, in response to public concern that they could pose a health risk.
The council has been told by the Government that it should not refuse permission for mobile phone masts on health grounds, if they satisfy national safety regulations.
Local authorities can only challenge a mobile phone operator's right to erect a mast if they believe that the siting or appearance of it would be unacceptable.
But, because of concerns about masts omitting radiation in highly-populated areas, the council agreed last week to establish a register for those in the borough.
A change in planning legislation now means that people living near to a site identified for a mobile phone mast will have 21 days, instead of 14, to comment on the proposal.
An independent report on telecommunications masts, prepared for Government, found that those which satisfied national radiation guidelines posed no risk to public health.
October 31, 2001 15:49
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article