Plans to install a new telecoms mast on Ascot High Street have been refused – despite telecoms companies insisting that it is ‘essential’ to maintaining phone signal in the area.

Mobile Broadband Network Limited applied for permission to install the mast and five equipment cabinets by the entrance to Car Park Six. It said the new mast is needed to maintain coverage for EE and 3 customers after another one nearby is removed.

A planning statement from Waldon Telecom said: “In order to avoid a situation where there is no coverage for the operators in this busy location, there is an urgent need to provide replacement coverage.

“A replacement installation in this location will ensure that the latest high quality 4G coverage is maintained and new 5G provision is provided in and around Ascot.”

Waldon said the replacement was needed as another mast at St Georges Landfill in Ascot will need to be removed to make way for a planned 131-home development.

But planning officers from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead said the 20 metre mast would be too large for the proposed new site.

They said: “The proposed 20m high telecommunications pole and associated equipment would by reason of its height, overall bulk and prominent siting detract from the visual amenity and appearance of the surrounding area.”