CONTROVERSIAL plans to install a 5G mast at a shopping centre have been thrown out.

Mobile phone operator Three wanted to to install the mast at Kearsley Shopping precinct in Manchester Road.

Local councillors spoke out against the plans.

Kearsley Conservative Councillor Mark Cunningham has welcomed the rejection to the proposed installation of a 20 metre 5G mast and wrap around cabinet at Kearsley shopping precinct by council planning chiefs.

Cllr Cunningham said: “Although the current proposal has now been rejected the applicant may still choose to submit a further application but if they do I would strongly recommend unlike on this occasion, they enter into a genuine pre-planning discussion with councillors to consider potentially more suitable alternative sites before they submit any further application .

He added: " Having listened to the opinion of Kearsley residents I am of the firm opinion that wherever possible these masts should be sited in fields or industrial sites as opposed to on pavements and adopted verges near houses.

"I realise this may have cost implications for the applicant but I expect these will pail into insignificance compared to the future profits they will make from the 5G network.

" In my view, the interests of Kearsley residents must always come before private profit.”

Kearsley councillor Paul Heslop also spoke out against the plans ­— saying the mast could have a negative effect on residents and house prices.