We’ve written to all major telecom companies across the UK to highlight an important legislative change affecting mast placements in National Parks. While rural connectivity is essential, we must also protect Exmoor’s stunning landscapes from unnecessary or insensitive development.
Under the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act (2023), authorities must seek to further the purposes of the National Park when proposing new sites for telecom masts. National Park Purposes are:
- To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the area.
- To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities by the public.
Too often, new masts are placed without considering landscape impact, potential mast-sharing, or community needs. We’re calling for a strategic, and environmentally sensitive approach when developing network coverage for rural communities on Exmoor.
We’ve asked telecom providers to ensure:
- Masts are in the least damaging locations.
- Alternative solutions are explored (e.g. disguising masts, using existing structures).
- They provide real coverage for those in need, without unnecessary duplication.
- Plans include future-proofing and site restoration once sites are decommissioned.
By working together, we can achieve strong rural connectivity without sacrificing Exmoor’s beauty.
A copy of the letter below was sent to Vodaphone, Virgin Media, BT, EE, Talk Talk, Sinclair Dalby, W H P Telecoms, Galliford Try, Fisher German and Amsy Chartered Surveyors.
Telecoms in Protected Landscapes Letter
*CAMPAIGN UPDATE: The government has recently announced that 50 upgraded masts in protected areas, initially only used by EE or to call 999, now have to be shared to provide coverage from all mobile network operators. It is a policy that will both vastly increase coverage in protected landscapes and reduce the potential number of masts. Read more here.
