'This recommendation shows absolutely no regard for the wishes of local residents and, the serious concerns local councillors and I have expressed. This will set a worrying precedent for the proliferation of mobile masts in our town centre.'

David Ruffley MP has reacted with dismay at the decision of St Edmundsbury Borough Council Officers to recommend approval of the controversial NGW/Vodafone mobile mast application in Whiting Street.

David has today written to St Edmundsbury Borough Council expressing his opposition to this decision and voicing his support for local residents and councillors who have opposed the application.

The Vodafone application, SE/05/02846, will go before the Development and Control committee on 2nd March 2006.

David said:

'This recommendation shows absolutely no regard for the wishes of local residents and the serious concerns local councillors and I have expressed. This will set a worrying precedent for the proliferation of mobile masts in our town centre.

'I have already written to NGW outlining my opposition to this application and have today written to St Edmundsbury Borough Council expressing my dismay at this recommendation by their Officers which flies in the face of public opinion.

'Local people must be allowed to have a say on what goes on in their immediate area. While the health implications of mobile masts remain unknown, I will vigorously oppose the siting of these masts whenever they threaten a residential area. I have always actively campaigned against mobile masts and I will continue to support the views and concerns of the people I represent.'