Concern is growing over plans to erect a 25metre tower in the middle of the Welsh Harp nature reserve.
An application has been submitted by Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure Ltd (CTIL) for the erection of the 25m lattice tower phone mast at the Brent Reservoir.
The tower, which will rise above the nearby trees, will have six antenna and two dishes as well as associated furniture at ground level and a concrete compound at the base.
The work is being done for Telefónica UK Limited and Vodafone who share operation of telecoms bases, with CTIL are just providing the infrastructure.
Martin Francis, member of the Green Party, said: “I see the Welsh Harp radio mast proposal as a further violation of this beautiful local community open space which continues the desecration that began with the redevelopment of the West Hendon estate at the other end of the reservoir.
“It is unsightly and unwanted and if approved would open the way to other developments on the banks of the Welsh Harp.”
Scott Bartle, a green party activist who lives in Mapesbury, said: “The Welsh Harp is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as one of the most important bird breeding areas in Southern England. There are many protected species here.
“There is no reason why this mobile phone mast needs to go here. It could be placed elsewhere.”
Objections are increasing on the planning website as residents become aware of the designs.
One person said: “How disgusting, there are a million other places to build this monstrosity. The Welsh Harp is a beautiful sanctuary for residents and wildlife alike. To even consider building this there is disgraceful.”
Another added: “To have a 25m mast in a place of outstanding beauty is totally unacceptable to us as the local community who use the location regularly.”
Brent Council could not confirm if they told the applicant to reduce tower to 20 metres.
A spokeswoman said: “The applicant may have been advised to reduce the height to 20m at the pre-application stage but any details of the pre app are confidential.”
Vodafone has been contacted.
Comments on the plans are open until November 27. Application Number on Brent Council’s planning page is 17/4597
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