TEN equipment cabins are to be connected to a mobile phone mast in Thornaby, to eliminate the need for a new mast.

Orange Personal Communications want to add the cabins to the mast at Anson House in Thornaby to increase the capacity of its equipment.

The company does not need to apply for planning permission for the cabins, but the council has to decide if the application needs prior approval.

If they decide they have jurisdiction over the application, council officers have recommended that the councillors approve the scheme, and allow the boxes to be built.

The only grounds for objection would be the design and siting of the boxes, and the council must decide if they want to object on those issues.

A council spokesman said: "The upgrade is required to provide additional call capacity in the area and avoid the need to create an entirely new site in the area.

"The proposal utilises an existing mast which has been a feature in this area for a number of years.

"It is considered that the addition of the proposed equipment cabins will not significantly increase the visual impact of the mast, and will not therefore detract from the amenity of the area."

Orange is also planning to put nine antennae on the mast, which they do not need to seek permission for.

The planning decision will be made today.