Protest launched to thwart 5G pole in The Avenue, Bushey

After planning permission was granted, the mast was supposed to be erected in The Avenue at the junction with Finch Lane in Bushey yesterday (June 29).

But when residents of Finch Lane saw temporary traffic lights going up, they came out in force to stop the work.

Finch Lane residents think 5G pole is being installed in the wrong location. (Image: Andrew Hearn)

Andrew Hearn, 52, who lives in the road in a house opposite the spot, said: “We have been in conversation with the council and [network provider] Three about this.

“We felt it was inappropriate for work to start because we are unhappy with the responses.”

But matters escalated when diggers arrived.

Andrew Hearn (Image: Andrew Hearn)

Mr Hearn said: “I took my car off the drive and put it where they plan to install the pole.

“The contactors were fine, it was a kind of ‘not again’, I bet they are used to it.”

Andrew Hearne placed his car on the grass verge to stop the installation of the 5G pole (Image: Andrew Hearn)

Mr Hearn said that he and the other residents are not against a 5G pole being installed in the area, but they believe it could be placed in a location that isn’t so visible.

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He said: “Part of our gripe is there is plenty of green space to choose from, which does not directly impact a residential area.

“There is a wonderful field opposite the avenue and then it will be spoilt by the mast.”

The location of the 5G pole opposite a field used by dog walkers. (Image: Google Street View)

A Three spokesperson said that 5G rollout is vital for residents and businesses of Bushey and the site is critical to making that happen.

The company said it carried out extensive searches and evaluates several options before submitting planning applications.

It added: “All generations of mobile technology used by Three comply with guidelines to ensure that no harmful levels of radiation are emitted.

The 5G pole will be visible to houses in Finch Lane (Image: Google Street View)

“As a responsible company, we take our obligation to run a safe network very seriously and actively work to ensure that our network remains compliant with international guidelines.”

Hertsmere County Council said it does not have any further comments in addition to what was discussed at the committee meeting on May 18.

Despite the application receiving 46 objections, and only four people in favour of the location, it was approved on May 22.

Three has agreed to a temporarily postpone installation for a week.