Dudley Council denies getting complaints about controversial phone mast

The mast, on Wollescote Road Cricket Pitch near Stourbridge, is causing a stink, with campaigners saying that fumes from a generator powering the installation are among a number of issues that the council should sort out.

The 20 metre mast was approved in 2022 with permission for two ground-based cabinets but users of the ground and nearby park say a generator has been running constantly for six months and the council must take action to have it removed.

Ward councillor Ethan Stafford said: “Despite repeated concerns being raised, there is still no clear plan in place to remove it or to address the problems it is causing.

“The constant noise and fumes from the generator have significantly impacted the park, with volunteers noting that a tree directly behind the generator has died, likely due to prolonged exposure to emissions.

“The temporary fencing around the site has been repeatedly vandalised, leaving hazardous cabling exposed, posing a serious risk to public safety.”

Councillor Stafford says concerns have been raised with Dudley Parks Development Team and the Ernest Stevens Trust which is responsible for the ground managed by the council.

Councillor Paul Bradley, Dudley Council cabinet member for regeneration, said: “We haven’t received any planning enforcement complaints relating to the mast and equipment.

“If we do, we will thoroughly investigate to determine whether there is a breach of planning.”

Julia Marks, chair of the friends of Wollescote Park, said: “The generator is an eyesore, it pollutes the air, and the safety risks from exposed cabling and damaged fencing are growing by the day.”

Councillor Bradley pledged the council will contact the company operating the mast about their security but Councillor Stafford is demanding more.

He said: “It’s time for Dudley Council and the telecommunications company to stop delaying and confirm when this generator will be removed.”