A NEW 19-metre high 5G pole is set to be built in Barrow.

Telecommunications company CK Hutchinson, who operates the 3 network in the UK,  had applied to Westmorland and Furness Council to ask if prior approval was needed to construct the 5G mast located on the pavement next to the Coop on St Lukes Street.

The council said no prior approval was required for the proposed development.

A planning statement submitted by the company sets out the suitability of the site chosen.

The report states: “The proposed site option is considered the best available compromise between extending 5G service across the target ‘coverage hole’ with the selected street works pole height and associated antenna and ground-based cabinets restricted to the minimum height which is capable of providing the required essential coverage.”

In the report it also states the proposed location of a new mast ‘will assimilate well into the immediate street scene and not be detrimental.’

In the planning statement it also lays out the benefits of constructing a 5G pole.

The report states: “The proposed installation supports the UK Government digital connectivity vision and provide a basis for support from the local planning authority to speed up digital infrastructure rollout set by Ministers on the 27 August 2000.

“Such development will facilitate educational benefits, providing access to vital services, improving communications with the associated commercial benefits for local businesses, enabling e-commerce and working from home as well as enjoying access to social, media and gaming for leisure time activities.”

The decision was made on September 21.