An application by T-Mobile for a mobile phone mast on Partridge Road has been approved by planning inspectors, despite having been turned down by Harlow Council.

In submitting its appeal, T-Mobile has reduced the height of the mast, from the original 11.7 metres to 9.7 metres. The planning inspector's decision says this would bring the mast into line with the height of the street lights on Southern Way.

Local residents have said that the phone signal in the area is good, but the inspector states that the new 3G phone system requires a closer network of masts. He goes on to state that the proposed mast meets the safety requirements of the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection.

The inspector has also said that the mast and equipment cabinets must be painted a suitable colour to minimise the visual impact.