Furious residents in Worcestershire claim a colossal 100-foot telecommunications mast has destroyed their peace and quiet, with one homeowner already driven from his property.
Life Disrupted by Noise and Fear
People living on Hurcott Road in Kidderminster report that the enormous 5G structure, erected in May 2024, is causing significant distress. The mast, which looms over their gardens, emits a constant 24-hour humming sound that is audible inside their homes. Homeowners are also gripped by safety concerns, fearing the structure could topple onto their properties during strong winds.
Steve Taylor, a 58-year-old marketing executive, has been forced to leave his home and now stays at his partner's house in Droitwich. He expressed his shock at the mast's proximity, stating it is a mere two feet from his boundary fence. "I tried to stay there but it rocks in the night, you can see it moving," Steve said. "The height of it, it would reach the house if it gave way in strong winds. It would kill me if I was asleep."
An 'Eyesore' with Fumes and Noise
The mast and its accompanying generator are situated just six feet from garden boundaries, secured by concrete blocks and chains. Residents describe the structure as an 'eyesore' that has rendered their outdoor spaces unusable. Beyond the incessant noise, Steve reported smelling fumes from the generator in his garden shed, further compounding the nuisance.
Another long-term resident, 68-year-old Jackie Hardwick, confirmed the disturbing impact. "We get humming in our garden which is quite disturbing. It drives you insane," she said. Jackie also noted that the mast was erected swiftly after a letter arrived, with construction taking four to six weeks. She, like her neighbours, believed the replacement mast would be a third of the size of the final, imposing structure.
Official Responses and the Search for a Solution
Reform councillor Mark Crosby from Worcestershire County Council is assisting the residents. He confirmed the mast's severe impact, noting that a potential homebuyer walked out of a viewing upon seeing the tower. "You have to see it to believe it," Councillor Crosby stated.
The site is owned by Community Housing, which issued a lease to Mobile Broadband Network Ltd (MBNL) until September 1, 2026. A spokesperson for Community Housing said they understand the concerns and are working with MBNL to have the temporary mast removed "as soon as possible."
An MBNL representative explained that the temporary mast was installed to maintain essential mobile coverage after the previous site on Coniston House was removed ahead of the building's demolition. They are urging the local authority to support a planning application for a new permanent mast nearby and apologised for the inconvenience.
Wyre Forest District Council clarified that the mast was installed under permitted development rights, meaning it did not require specific planning permission. These national rules allow for temporary equipment to be installed for up to 18 months in emergencies to keep communication services running.
