A mobile phone mast could be erected near a Bushey primary school without the approval of a council planning committee.

Mobile operator o2 is hoping to erect the 11.8-metre mast in Melbourne Road, which merges with Palmer Avenue, on the same road as Little Reddings Primary School.

Council officers are currently considering an informal, pre-application enquiry from the UK mobile phone giant.

Bushey resident, and former Bushey Park councillor Robert Gamble, said the building of phone masts will often court controversy among residents.

He said: “There is a feeling among some that they are harmful, but there are equally studies proving they are safe. People will form their own opinions but, either way, it would be wrong to say they are ever welcomed by residents.”

Government planning law does not require mobile phone operators to formally enter planning applications for masts under 15 metres.

However, a prior-approval application must be submitted to the authority, giving council officers 56 days to approve the plans or send them to the local planning committee.

It is also the responsibility of applicants to consult residents in the area, the amount of which will depend on the sensitivity of the application.

O2 rated the Melbourne Road site as having 'several' concerns based on an assessment considering proximity to residential properties and schools, and the impact on the environment.

Communications manager for o2 and Vodaphone, Jim Stevenson, said: “If we need to, we will definitely put a planning application in. We are currently in discussions with the local residents and the planning department at the council to get their feedback and give them an opportunity to comment on what we are doing.”

The phone mast would provide additional 3G coverage for o2 and Vodaphone customers in the area.

How would you feel about a phone mast being built near your home or your child's school? Leave your comments below.