PEOPLE in Hartlepool will get a chance today to receive an update on issues surrounding mobile phone masts.

The Policy Scrutiny Forum will hear a report which looks at the progress on scientific research relating to phone masts, developments in planning issues and the government's response to the Stewart Report.

Last year, Hartlepool Borough Council conducted its own investigation into mobile phone masts and recommended a precautionary approach when determining planning applications.

There were 17 recommendations including banning masts on school grounds, encouraging mobile phone operators to site masts on industrial areas away from residential areas and urging operators to share masts in an attempt to reduce the number.

The public are invited to attend the meeting, which will be held in the civic centre, at 2pm. For more details contact the council on (01429) 523647.