By Eric Nicolson

A “TOTAL disregard” for public opinion has been shown by the Scottish Executive in giving the go-ahead for a controversial mobile phone mast near four Perth schools, a local councillor has claimed.

Developers Hutchison 3G have been successful with their appeal against Perth and Kinross Council’s decision to throw out plans for a 15-metre mast at the Burghmuir reservoir park.

Over 500 residents put pen to paper to object to the Viewlands Road West plans, with the rector of nearby Perth High School describing the land as “probably the least appropriate place for a telecommunications mast in Scotland”.

Councillor Alexander Stewart had backed the Oakbank Community Mast Action Group in their campaign against the mast.

Yesterday he reflected, “Back in November 2004 I attended a public meeting which was organised by neighbouring councillor Willie Wilson.

“The strength of feeling at that meeting was considerable and I congratulated the protest group which had been working tirelessly to ensure that locals became aware of the situation.

“There was no doubt in my mind that this was one of the most controversial mast proposals for Perth city.

“The planning application had received some 550 letters of objection which were sent by concerned residents, many of whom were my constituents living in the Wellshill ward.

“These residents expressed fears that the site was so close to primary and secondary schools and initially no formal consultation had taken place with either Perth High School or Oakbank Primary, which would be affected if the mast became reality.

“Many also believed that a mast so close to such a large residential area could well have a negative effect on property values, and that was confirmed when individuals contacted property valuators who indicated that if the mast was erected it could have a detrimental effect on the value of their property.

“As far as the Scottish Executive is concerned, in my opinion they have a total disregard for public opinion.

“The strength of feeling on this planning application was considerable and, as was said, this mast will now be erected on ‘probably the least appropriate place for a telecommunication mast in Scotland’.”

When the plans were first raised the rector of Perth High School, James Scott, commented, “Having discussed this matter with colleagues (and particularly with students) our view is that the wise and safe precautionary approach would be to refuse planning permission for this site.”