An appeal for plans by EE to build a huge 5G telecoms mast at playing fields in Bracknell has been thrown out by a planning inspector.

EE was seeking to build a 25 metre 4G and 5G mast at the Calfridus Way playing fields in Bracknell, in order to provide mobile network for the area and train passengers on the Reading to Waterloo line.

The plan was rejected by Bracknell Forest Council’s planning committee, and an appeal by EE to get the mast built has been dismissed by  the Government’s planning inspector.

However, the  planning inspector judged that the mast would be a “stark, industrial and alien feature” when set amongst the playing fields and nearby woods.

In her conclusion, inspector Rachael Pipkin wrote: “The siting and appearance of the proposed development would significantly harm the character and appearance of the area.

“However, it would not harm the role and function of the local green space. There is insufficient evidence to justify the proposed development in this location, having regard to the location of alternative sites and the requirement to provide coverage to the railway line.”

She also referred to the Bracknell Neighbourhood Plan which was adopted in October 2021, with policy EV2, which protects green spaces like the playing fields, and only allows construction on them in exceptional circumstances.

Celebrating the decision, councillor Chris Turrell (Conservative, Harmans Water) executive member for planning on Bracknell Forest Council and the leader of Bracknell Town Council said: “This is an important and very welcome decision, which defends the character of local green spaces, and the role played by the neighbourhood plan.”

“Calfridus Way Playing Fields are used and enjoyed by many local residents, as the inspector noted on a site visit.”

The rejection of the appeal has meant that EE has pressed ahead with its plan for a smaller 20 metre mast, which has now been installed at the junction of Calfridus Way and Ralphs Ride.

The plan for this mast was approved by Bracknell Forest’s planning committee on July 15, 2021.

Acknowledging this plan, the inspector judged that the 25 metre mast would provide “limited public benefits.”

Responding to the failure of its appeal, a spokesperson for EE said: “We always seek to minimise visual impact when we’re looking to build new masts or upgrade equipment and strictly follow all planning procedures.

“Our primary focus is to continue providing critical national infrastructure to the many residents and business in the Bracknell area which rely upon it.

“A 20-metre mast on the corner of Ralphs Ride and Calfridus Way has been approved, installed and is set to go live in February.”