Spot the difference
I recently received a consulation on behalf of Vodafone who are looking to site telecommunication equipment at Christchurch.
Clearly this is no small matter as Christchurch is a listed building and a jewel in the crown of Consett. I was quite taken by the ingenuity of the proposal, however, as they seem to have made such a discreet proposal that I can see no reason for concern.
The eagle eyed among you will have spotted that the antenna is planned to be sited behind the right hand louvre in the bell tower. The cabinets containing the other equipment would be invisibly located within the first floor chamber.
Last December I received a similar consultation document in relation to Christchrch. It proposed that the mast be disguised as a flagpole on the tower, with the cabinet sited at ground level beside the church. I didn’t think that proposal looked bad, but have to hand it to the Planning Department. They were not happy with it and their response has clearly produced a better proposal.
The need for telecommunication equipment is unavoidable in a society which relies so heavily on it, and is often controversial. I think that this proposal is the best I have seen (if you doubt it just look a bit along the skyline to the Police Station). I suspect the church will also be grateful for any rental they get for allowing their building to be used in this way - and better able to maintain it as a result.
It’s not my view that counts, however, but yours. That’s why I’ll be interested in any responses I get.
have your say
