People power has forced Richmond Council to review its policy on banning mobile phone masts from council land after residents from a Twickenham street launched a protest over a mast overlooking their homes.

Residents of Sixth Cross Road were horrified when, in October last year, telecoms company Hutchison 3G was granted planning permission to build a mast in the road despite only two homes being consulted.

Most residents only became aware of the plans when the mast was erected 25 metres from the nearest house.

When they argued Twickenham golf course, nearby, would be a better option they were told Richmond Council did not allow masts on its property or open land.

After collecting a 60-signature petition and enlisting the help of West Twickenham councillor Alan Butler, the angry residents have managed to force the council into a policy U-turn and agree to allow the mast to be moved onto the golf course.

At a cabinet meeting earlier this month, councillors voted unanimously to reverse its policy to allow masts to be built further away from residential areas.

Coun Butler said: "Although the council was trying to make a statement that they were against phone masts the old policy was exacerbating problems. Now we need to have the mobile phone mast moved from its site. I am confident we will get a result for our residents."

But resident Anne Robinson, who spearheads the campaign, said she would not be happy until the mast is a safe distance away from her toddlers.

She said: "I have two small children and I'm incredibly concerned about their health. This has just completely ruined our lives. I'm constantly worried about the increased risk of childhood leukaemia and cancer scares.

"Hutchison agreed to move it onto the golf course but this is taking some time. We have had to fight every step of the way."

Richmond Council said advice from the Government is that there is a very low risk of health and safety problems from mobile phone masts.

January 31, 2003 10:30