PLANS to build a controversial 17 metre phone mast on a Ulverston housing estate have been submitted.

Telecoms giant Vodafone wants to build the 'eyesore' mast by a newsagents on green space at Oakwood Drive owned by South Lakeland District Council.

The company had planned to install the 60-foot mast in 2017, with critics saying it would stand "cheek by jowl" with the houses in the Croftlands Estate.

South Lakeland District Council planning chiefs rejected the application but failed to inform Vodafone, meaning the company was allowed to press ahead with plans.

Vodafone started work on building the mast but halted construction following the concerns the permission could be legally challenged.

The phone company said the proposed development would provide 2G, 3G and 4G coverage and capacity for both Vodafone and O2.

It added the proposal would offer 'improved services and capabilities to the local community, creating better connections that will have social and economic benefits for the area'.

The application has already received 19 objections from concerned residents.

Betty Wilding, of Oakwood Drive, said: "I strongly object to this large scale mast going up outside my house. It will overshadow my house when I open the blinds in the morning to look at this horrible eyesore.

"It will be overbearing and intrusive and spoil a lovely neighbourhood. It needs stopping, find somewhere else."

Fellow Oakwood Drive resident Jean Newby said: "This mast is far too big and imposing for a housing estate and will be horrible for residents."