A CONTROVERSIAL plan for a 12-metre high mobile phone mast disguised as a telegraph pole to boost coverage for the emergency services has sparked a row in a south Cumbria community.

Lake District National Park planners are set to grant approval in principle for the structure, equipment cabinets and cabling at Barrow Wife, at Cartmel Fell, at a meeting in Kendal on Wednesday.

The firm behind the application, EE, claims it will form part of upgrades to the Emergency Services Network as well as boosting 4G coverage in the area for mobile phone users.

However, the application, which is recommended for approval, has attracted 20 objections from residents setting out concerns including its visual impact on the landscape and upon the nearest properties.