HC Deb 11 November 1997 vol 300 cc491-3W
Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, pursuant to his decision in respect of the appeal by Orange PCS Ltd. for a telecommunications mast on land at Gun Hill Industrial Estate, Dedham (Ref. COL/96/1259) if he will make a statement on its compatibility with planning guidance for masts in or near areas of outstanding natural beauty and other sensitive areas. [15349]

Mr. Raynsford

My right hon. Friend issued his decision allowing a telecommunications mast at Gun Hill, Essex, on 28 October 1997. The reasons for allowing the appeal were set out in the decision letter, which was sent to the hon. Gentleman. These decisions took into account the relevant policies in the Essex Structure Plan and the

Angela Eagle

Figures for paper and glass from 1986 to 1995, from the OECD Environmental Data Report, 1997 are set out in the attached tables. However, definitions may vary from one country to another and the figures may not be directly comparable. In particular, the recycling rates may be based on total amounts of waste produced, rather than total apparent consumption.

Published figures for aluminium and steel cans are not readily available.

Colchester Borough Local Plan and current guidance set out in Planning Policy Guidance Notes 7 and 8, relating to development in the countryside and the provision of telecommunications facilities.

Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the adequacy of planning guidance on telecommunications masts in respect of protection afforded to sensitive areas such as areas of outstanding natural beauty. [15348]

Mr. Raynsford

Current planning policy guidance on telecommunications development is set out in planning policy guidance note 8—PPG8 revised. That guidance reflects our general policy of facilitating the growth of new and existing telecommunications systems while protecting the environment. Those objectives include the protection of the countryside and urban areas, especially designated areas such as National Parks, areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and conservation areas.

Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many mobile telecommunications masts have been constructed in(a) the Borough of Colchester and (b) Tendring District. [15347]

Mr. Raynsford

This information is not collected centrally. However, the Government consider it desirable that the number of telecommunications masts is kept to a minimum. Wherever possible, we would wish to see good use made of existing masts and other structures for the installation of new antennas.