Chinese-owned masts to be replaced on tower block

The government has ordered all Huawei equipment to be removed from the UK's network

Chinese-owned telecommunications masts will be replaced on the roof of an 18-storey tower block.

Bracknell Forest Council has approved plans for Cellnex UK to replace its 5G masts on the roof of the Point Royal tower on Rectory Lane, Easthampstead.

The Grade II listed building already has equipment on the roof – but it must be replaced after the government ordered all Huawei equipment to be removed from the UK's network.

All kit from the Chinese firm in the UK must be taken down by 2027 following a technical review by the National Cyber Security Centre in 2020.

It is not known when work to remove the equipment will begin

Three of the masts will be replaced with six new antenna on the roof of Point Royal.

Applicant Cellnex UK said the works would be the "least visually intrusive solution" rather than introducing a new ground-based or rooftop installation elsewhere.

Plans were approved last year to upgrade other equipment on the rooftop, which will be used by Vodafone and O2.

In 2023, Bracknell Forest Council refused permission for another telecoms company, Cignal infrastructure, to build a ground-level phone mast in Great Hollands.

Neighbours said that mast would have been an "eyesore" and the council said the equipment would damage a nearby tree.

Bracknell Forest Council has approved the latest plans for Point Royal. It is not know when work will begin.