Airwave to improve signal coverage in Goonhily, Conrwalll, UK. TETRA masts have no adverse health effects

In de UK, plans to place controversial Tetra equipment in Coverack are to be opposed by St Keverne Parish Council. Members heard objections from a number of local people at their meeting on Thursday. They were told the plan was to improve signal coverage for emergency services' communication systems from an existing mast at Goonhilly.

Among the objectors was Belinda Edwards-Moore, of Coverack, who said: "There is a lot of controversy around the safety of this type of signal, which has resulted in great public concern and opposition to these types of mast." She also referred to previous unsuccessful attempts to place Tetra equipment in the area. Other objectors have voiced concerns similar to hers online about possible health implications.

At the meeting she cited studies - including one by the Police Federation - which questioned the possible effects of long-term exposure to the low-level microwave transmission system. After the meeting, she said: "At the moment there is not enough information to allay health fears. "People may like a little more time to look at it and then to exercise their democratic right."

Implications
At the meeting Councillor Bill Frisken questioned some of the research into the health implications of the system. Councillor David Lambrick added: "Research can prove whatever people want it to prove." He later successfully moved that the council opposed the plan for two 20ft timber poles supporting antenna and an equipment cabinet at ground level, with other development, on land at Polcoverack Lane.

Hannah Marwood, for applicants Airwave Solutions Ltd, confirmed the intention was to provide a booster signal for the Goonhilly mast - not a stronger signal, but a repeated one to cover a wider area. Devon and Cornwall Police had requested it, she added.

In a statement, the company said: "The Lizard Peninsula is already covered by the Airwave network, letting the emergency services stay in touch wherever they are. "Airwave masts give out the same amount of energy as a light bulb. "The technology has been subject to rigorous testing, and all such emissions from mobile masts have strict guidelines on the amounts of emissions they produce.

"Airwave mast emissions are a long way below those allowed thresholds. "The consensus of the scientific community is that Airwave masts have no adverse health effects. This conclusion is supported by (among others) the Home Office and the World Health Organisation." Cornwall Council's planners will decide the application.

Source: www.thisiscornwall.co.uk