Prior approval has been granted so that leading telecommunications company Virgin Media O2 - VMO2 UK Limited - can upgrade a radio base station near Lowestoft.

A prior notification telecommunication application had been lodged with East Suffolk Council in January with proposals centring around an "improvement program" for the operator’s network.

A decision was made last week as prior approval was granted to install a new 22.5m monopole with headframe following removal of the existing 15m monopole and six antennas.

It will support nine antennas and a transmission dish along with ancillary development on land at Colville Road Works on Colville Road, Oulton Broad in Lowestoft.

Agents Avison Young for Cornerstone - one of the UK's leading mobile infrastructure services company - on behalf of VMO2 UK Limited said the existing base station would be upgraded with a "minor height increase to ensure correct signal propagation towards the target coverage area."

It added: "Cornerstone are in the process of progressing suitable sites in the Lowestoft area for radio base stations that will improve service provision for VMO2 UK Limited.

"This is an application for a determination as to whether the prior approval of the authority will be required as to the siting and appearance of the development."

After consulting with the council as views were sought before proceeding with the works, it added: "As part of the operator’s network improvement program, there is a specific requirement for a radio base station upgrade at this location to replace existing equipment with the latest technologies, which will improve existing coverage provisions for better signal strength, capacity and speed.

"The proposed works are minor and will be capable of assimilating into the surrounding environment."

A delegated report from the council's case officer said: "The site is located within a commercial/industrial estate.

"The mast replaces an existing one, and whilst some aspects will be larger and the overall mast is taller, it is not considered that would have any adverse impacts upon the character and appearance of the area."

© Eastern Daily Press