5G tech on lampposts approved despite safety fears

Devon County Council has approved plans allowing telecommunications companies to mount 5G equipment on street lights throughout the county, despite safety concerns raised by some councillors. The decision, made by the council's cabinet, will permit firms to attach connectivity equipment to lampposts for an annual fee of £300-£350 per light, with higher rates for buildings and bridges.

Why Devon Is Pushing Forward With 5G

The council's motivation is twofold: generating revenue and addressing Devon's significant connectivity gap. According to the council report, 5G coverage in Devon lags far behind the national average of over 96%. Coverage across Devon sits at just 66%, with some areas like north Devon and Torridge reaching only 45%. Council officers argued that supporting 5G rollout could deliver "significant economic benefits at both national and local levels," though they acknowledged deployment would proceed "more slowly without support such as the ability to utilise council-owned assets."

What Parents and Homebuyers Should Know

The Green Party group leader expressed concerns about "too many unknowns about the safety of 5G," representing worries held by many health-conscious families. However, council officers stated that current evidence shows no adverse effects on health from 5G technology. For parents concerned about EMF exposure, it's worth understanding that many common fears about 5G are based on misconceptions, though it's reasonable to want more long-term studies.

For families and homebuyers, proximity to these installations may become a consideration when choosing where to live. If you're already concerned about EMF exposure in your home, solutions like EMF shielding paint exist, though maintaining distance from sources remains the most effective strategy. Remember that EMF intensity decreases significantly with distance from the source.

The approval means 5G equipment could appear on lampposts near homes, schools, and parks throughout Devon. While the council is not technically the planning authority for this infrastructure, regulations allow them to control use of their assets. Parents who wish to know more about planned installations in their neighborhoods should contact their local council representatives.

Originally reported by BBC