PLANS have been lodged with the city council to build a 20 metre high telecoms tower in Gisland, improving rural connectivity.

Carlisle City Council has received an application for planning permission to build a telecoms tower on land at Birky Shank, Butterburn in Gisland.

The structure will hold six antennas, four transmission dishes, two equipment cabinets, one meter cabinet and associated works including a generator and fuel tank.

If approved, the mast will bring 4G coverage to the rural area which the applicant, Cornerstone believes is vital to assist communities in accessing healthcare services “as well as increased accessibility to information on how to live a healthier lifestyle.”

Cornerstone is building the masts in a number of locations as part of the Shared Rural Network project.

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The scheme is a joint venture between the UK’s four major mobile networks and Central Government to tackle rural isolation and address poor mobile coverage.

It is hoped that the scheme will deliver 4G coverage to 95 per cent of the UK, improving prospects for rural communities and businesses.

In their supporting statements submitted to Carlisle City Council, Cornerstone said that the network will benefit communities in a variety of ways.

As well as improving coverage for remote working and entertainment, the plans will mean better social connectivity, online services, disability inclusion and consumer choice.

Cornerstone said: “As local authorities and businesses move more services online, the need to have a reliable connection is hugely important. The increased levels of connectivity provided by the Shared Rural Network will result in better access to the likes of online banking, public services, and utility providers.”

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On the subject of disability inclusion, they said: “will aim to make it easier for those with impairments to engage with others by removing certain barriers to inclusion. The ability to access websites, apps and webenabled services can assist in communication, online participation, and provide access to useful information and guidance to help improve the lives of those with disabilities.”

The public can view and comment on all applications submitted to Carlisle City Council at: https://www.carlisle.gov.uk/Residents/Planning-and-Building-Control

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