PLANNERS are expected to approve a controversial application for an 18-metre mobile phone mast in Derwentside.

It has been submitted by Vodafone, which wants to build at Unit G1 on Park Road North Industrial Estate, in Blackhill, near Consett.

Derwentside District Council is meeting tomorrow to discuss the matter.

As well as a pole with three antennae, the mobile phone company wants to build an equipment cabinet on the site.

But the proposal has sparked anger in the community, and the council has received two petitions with more than 100 names and eight letters of opposition.

People who live nearby fear the health implications of the development, arguing the site is too near homes.

Companies in the area are concerned the equipment could interfere with their computers and affect their ability to recruit and retain staff.

Some feel potential flat-buyers in areas where developments are planned would be put off if they had to live near a mast.

Planning officers said that based on recent court cases, health concerns were not sufficient grounds to refuse permission.

It also said in a report that computer users should not be affected.

Planning officer Shaun Wells has advised the council to approve the application.