A broadband company has been temporarily suspended from erecting new telecoms masts in Oldham because of "unsafe practices". IX Wireless has caused controversy among local residents, who have staged protests against the numerous "ugly" masts, which they have described as "monstrosities" and "eyesores". IX Wireless has stated that the safety issues were related to a "third-party traffic management company" and have been "rectified going forward".
The company are installing the poles as part of an infrastructure boost to increase their coverage over the region. At least 46 applications have been put through the planning portal. An Oldham Council spokesperson noted that the poles can be installed without the need for planning permission or public consultation, which "severely restricts" the local authority’s ability to respond to complaints.
However, the installations do require highways permits. The spokesperson said: “We have told IX Wireless to stop work across the borough following safety concerns. “We are temporarily suspending issuing new highways permits to the firm until officers are satisfied safe working practices have been in place.
"Other councils have already taken this step. “The temporary suspension was put in place because over the last few weeks our highways team has received a number of complaints about work being carried out by IX Wireless. “Concerns were raised about the safety of pedestrians, motorists and the company’s own staff while work was b.
