Draft Regulation 18 Sandwell Local Plan
Telecommunications
15.82 The ongoing growth of digital communications means that there will remain a need for guidance on the provision of associated infrastructure.
Policy SDM10 - Telecommunications
- In considering proposals for telecommunication development for which planning permission is required, or to which the prior approval procedure is applicable, the following criteria will apply:
- The siting and external appearance of apparatus including any location or landscaping requirements have been designed to minimise the impact of such apparatus on amenity, while respecting operational efficiency.
- Antennae have, so far as is practicable, been sited either to minimise the effect on, or to complement or beneficially add to the external appearance of the building on which they are installed.
- Applicants must demonstrate that they have explored all possibilities for sharing masts, or for siting masts on existing buildings or structures.
- The development would not impact on scheduled highway improvement works.
- Microcell installations will be expected where agreements exist with the relevant highway authority to utilise existing street furniture, not add to the clutter of the street scene, impede pedestrian flows or contribute to highway safety issues.
- The use of Article 4 directions removing permitted development rights for telecommunication development will be considered where there is a serious risk to amenity.
Justification
15.83 Since April 2022, new ground-based mobile masts up to 30 metres in height in unprotected areas, and up to 25 metres in protected areas, are considered permitted development in England.
15.84 A full application for planning permission is required for any telecoms infrastructure that is not covered by permitted development rights. Prior to deciding a planning application, Sandwell Council will seek views from the local community on the proposed project.
15.85 Some telecoms infrastructure, such as new ground-based mobile masts, is considered permitted development but requires "prior approval" from the local planning authority regarding its siting and appearance. The Council will also inform residents of this type of application.
15.86 All telecommunications proposals should be designed to minimise visual impact and intrusion. The decision to propose ground based or building based masts, antennae and cabins will depend on the respective impact that the proposal will have on visual amenity, local character, skyline and neighbouring uses.
