CONTROVERSIAL plans for a new Kidderminster electricity pylon that sparked a flood of complaints have been given the go-ahead, despite concerns over safety and its appearance.

Plans for a 30 metre mast – which was described as an "eyesore" – were passed on Tuesday, July 19, in a bitter blow to furious residents’ year-long battle to move its proposed location.

A planning committee heard alternative sites recommended for the Western Power Distribution (WPD) application had been "exhausted", leaving no other viable solutions.

It will be built on an existing grid substation on land off New Road/Tram Street, despite failing WPD’s own safety guidelines for a pylon’s height in relation to its proximity to live electrical equipment.

But Paul Round, Principle Development Control Officer, re-assured members that the weight of the base of the mast will prevent the pylon toppling over and coming into contact with electrical equipment.

The land, which is known as the Green Street Conservation Area, has also been identified by the Environment Agency as being in Flood Zone 3, known for surface water flooding.

Marcus Hart, leader of the council, admitted he held "concerns" over the application – which was made last April – claiming an "exceptionally high mast" will "stick out because of its height".

Councillor John Hart added: "I’m absolutely amazed that we are allowing this application to be presented given the implementation of the conservation area.

"This tower, in my opinion, will stand out like a giant sprout in the town centre."

The site will also be surrounded by 1.8m high palisade fencing.

Yet a 150-strong petition from residents, 28 letters against the plan, as well as objections from Kidderminster Town Council, Kidderminster Civic Society and Historic England were snubbed.

WPD said alternative sites presented were not viable, while the installation of an 8.7km underground fibre cable was deemed excessive at an estimated cost of £1.36 million.

Councillor Fran Oborski said: "I regret that what is an extremely wealthy company seems unwilling to spend the sum necessary to install underground fibre optic cables.

"Western Power Distribution seem to have us between a rock and a hard place.

"Having said that, if they are not prepared to do the financially more expensive alternative, it looks as though it’s this technology or no technology.

"This is an incredibly difficult decision but on balance I’m going to have to vote for this with a very heavy heart – we appear to have absolutely no alternative."

Charles Talbot, of Kidderminster Civic Society, believed the plans were "a matter of practical convenience and profits for those who want to put it up".

Yet Councillor James Shaw, while conceding the pylon would be an "eyesore" which "will not enhance the townscape", insisted it is "essential for us to live our lives".

Alongside Bishopswood and Stourport grid substations, the pylon in Kidderminster will help supply electricity to more than 55,000 residential properties in Wyre Forest.

A WPD spokesperson said: "To avoid the proposed 30m tower at Kidderminster, WPD would need to lay fibre optic cable from Kidderminster to Bishopswood via Stourport.

"The estimated cost of laying 8.7km of fibre optic cable is over £1.36 million

"The disruption to local communities and businesses from over 8.7km of trenching in the highway would be enormous. Most importantly, the cost would be completely prohibitive."