Development Management DPD - Revised Proposed Submission

Comment

Representation ID: 1680

Received: 24/04/2014

Respondent: Mono Consultants Limited (Mobile Operators Association)

There should be a concise and flexible telecommunications policy contained within one of the statutory Documents of the Local Planning Framework. Any further background information should be contained within a separate Supplementary Planning Document.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) at paragraph 42 confirms that "advanced, high quality communications infrastructure is essential for sustainable economic growth and play a vital role in enhancing the provision of local community facilities and services. " Paragraph 43 confirms that "in preparing local plans, local planning authorities should support the expansion of telecommunications networks", but should also "aim to keep the numbers of radio telecommunications masts and sites for such installations to a minimum consistent with the efficient operation of the network. Existing masts, buildings and other structures should be used, unless the need for a new site has been justified."

Further advice on the siting and design of telecommunications and good practice procedural guidance is contained within the Code of Best Practice for Mobile Phone Network Development (July 2013).