Published: Wednesday, 23rd January, 2008 10:30
Concerns over phone mast set to be taken on board
By Caitlin Smith
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The controversial mast - local people don't like where it is positioned.
AN “unsightly” phone mast constructed on one of Yarrow Valley’s most scenic spots, will not be moved despite hostility from the local community council and roads safety officers.
The emergency services installation, which will provide 24-hour radio link-up cover, is positioned on the road verge at Mountbenger on the B709 has been criticised by Selkirk councillor Vicky Davidson and Scottish Border Council representatives who gathered last week.
Councillor Davidson attended the site meeting with concerned Yarrow neighbours and planning and roads officers Alistair Lorimer and John Frater.
She told the Border Telegraph: “Local residents are really unhappy that this has been placed on a downhill right-hand bend where they consider there is a real road safety issue.
“It also obscures a vantage point over the valley which used to site an interpretation board including Wordsworth’s lines on the Yarrow Valley.
“It has full planning consent, but the views of the community council were disregarded as were mine, and it was passed under delegated powers.”
The 19th century poet wrote one of several poems about the valley after being inspired by its rugged beauty.
On local who attended the meeting said: “The planner didn’t have much to say for himself, but the locals had plenty.
“The police officers present also voiced their concerns regarding the size of the structure in that it is too big.
“We don’t like where it is positioned.
“It could be placed on the other side of the road therefore not spoiling fantastic view or causing a traffic hazard.
“One major concern is the very sharp point the safety rail presents to oncoming traffic – a motorbike rider wouldn’t stand a chance if they hit the safety barrier head on.”
Now the roads department are set to take another look at the site after taking on board points raised on road safety.
Mr Lorimer said that barrier could be potentially dangerous should a biker leave the road.
“The feedback we’ve been getting is that this is a popular route for motorcyclists and in the event that someone crashes, the safety barrier will endanger them.”
He added that the Council is now set to approach Mono Consultants to ask if they can modify the barrier so that it follows the curve of the road to help guide vehicles round the corner.
Councillor Davidson said she was pleased that road safety issues were being addressed.
“Although I don’t think it should have been installed there in the first place and I’m annoyed that my views and those of the community council were ignored, there is nothing we can do to have this unsightly mast moved now that it has full planning consent.
“The changes to the safety barrier will at least help on road safety issue so I’m pleased that that came out of the meeting.”
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