5G map launches as new government rules take effect

Changes to the law introduced by the government in April 2022 mean that telecoms operators can now install higher and broader 5G masts without council approval.

To show where operators have notified us of a planned sitings we now have a new interactive Mast & Applications map on our website showing both existing and proposed sites.

5G is the fifth generation of mobile internet which provides much faster digital download and upload speeds. Its greater capacity allows thousands of devices in a small area to connect at the same time, with more stable connections than before.

New 5G mast rules

Masts that are installed on buildings outside of conservation areas and are less than 6 metres above the highest part of the building do not require full planning permission or prior approval by the council. The law gives operators planning permission as a ‘permitted development’. 

The updated rules also increase the size of masts that are allowed under permitted development. This includes installing new masts of up to 30m in height above ground level on unprotected land, or 25m on protected land, such as land within a conservation area or site of special scientific interest.

The new rule changes are explained on our 5G mast planning applications website page.

Mast & Applications map

To provide as much information as possible to residents, we have commissioned independent mobile telecoms industry data experts Mastdata to provide an interactive map showing the location of masts in Brighton & Hove.

This map shows existing masts and their operators, as well as applications, including those that require planning permission. These can be viewed in more detail through our Planning Applications portal.

In addition to launching this new web page we continue to advertise the details of applications every Friday in the Classified Adverts section of the Argus newspaper.

Consultation

There is no legal requirement for telecoms operators to consult with residents. However, the government has published a Code of Practice for companies on consultation with local communities.

We encourage operators siting masts in the city to follow this code. Where a mast falls under permitted development rules all questions should be directed to the operator.

Better digital connectivity

Councillor Martin Osborne, Co-chair of the Tourism, Equalities, Communities and Culture committee, said: “Better digital connectivity is a key part of building our successful and sustainable local economy. We need to develop the most effective mobile and wireless technology to serve businesses and homes in the city.

“But we are also keenly aware of the concerns some residents have about the siting of 5G masts.

“Under these new national government rules the council has even more limited powers now. Particularly where masts fall under the new permitted development criteria.

“We encourage companies to consult with the local community and we are taking the lead among local authorities in developing the interactive Mast and Applications Map .

“This new map will give Brighton & Hove residents the most thorough information of proposed masts across the city, and help planning officers determine applications that are not automatically permitted by national legislation.”

Public Health guidance

All UK mobile phone network operators must follow Public Health England guidance and applications for masts should include a certificate of compliance with guidelines produced by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). These are guidelines on limiting exposure to electromagnetic fields to protect public health.

Councils have been told by ministers that they should not refuse planning applications for masts or base stations on health grounds where these meet the ICNIRP guidelines.

More information about 5G mast planning applications can be found on our website.