Phone mast plan withdrawn for second time

Sure withdrew a plan to build the mast near Le Mont Saint garage

Telecoms firm Sure has withdrawn revised plans to build a mast to boost mobile phone coverage in Guernsey.

Sure planned to install a 12m (39ft) timber-clad mast at Le Mont Saint garage site to "enhance coverage and data speeds".

The company had already withdrawn its initial plans for a mast at the site and resubmitted them, following criticism from local residents.

Sure said the plans were withdrawn due to a "change in intent" by the landowner and it was looking to identifying the "next most suitable location".

'High-quality connectivity'

The initial plans drew criticism from residents and the National Trust due to concerns over the impact on the natural landscape at the site, which is near the St Apolline conservation area.

Cyrille Joffre, chief technology and information officer at Sure, said the company "remain fully committed" to improving mobile coverage and data speeds.

He said: "We are investing to transform the way telecommunications are delivered.

"Following Sure's acquisition of Airtel, the future mobile network will require one-third fewer masts, significantly reducing the environmental impact on Guernsey.

"Our priority is delivering reliable, high-quality connectivity for a better future for Guernsey."