TWO telecommunications companies are planning to erect a 21-metre high tower on the outskirts of Ludlow.

The expectation is that this will considerably improve mobile coverage in Ludlow.

A planning application has been submitted by Clarke Telecom on behalf of Vodafone and Telefonica.

At 21-metres high, it will protrude more than 10 metres above the trees lining Fishmore Road. The lattice tower will have three antennas on top.

Clarke Telecom considered several sites around Ludlow before choosing the Fishmore Road site. They included Ludlow Brewery, Bringewood and the roof of St Peter’s Church.

Andy Boddington, Shropshire Councillor for Ludlow North, said that he believes that improved mobile telephone coverage in the area is welcome but has concerns about the proposed location for the mast.

“I am surprised that the list doesn’t include the Eco Park because I would have thought our business park would be ideal for a mast like this,” said Andy Boddington.

“There is plenty of ground on the Eco Park now that the hospital project has been abandoned. But it may be that a mast there would not serve the area required for the phone companies.”