A planning application has been submitted to erect a 20metre phone mast in Wanstead.

Applicant Telefonica is seeking permission for an 02 and Vodafone “monopole” and installation of six equipment cabinets and a meter cabinet at the junction of Kingfisher Avenue and Gardener Close.

If approved, the pole would replace a 15-metre pole and one cabinet at the site.

In their application, Telefonica said: “Careful consideration has been given to the siting and appearance of the installation when proposing it at this location and equipment has been designed specifically for this location.

“It incorporates a number of elements to minimise impact, including keeping the scale of development to a minimum. “This impact would be offset by the benefits of the proposal with continued and enhanced coverage to the area.”

The applicant said although the mast is taller and of a slightly “larger cross-section,” it will not impact on the area which comprises a number of high rise buildings.

“There are no schools in close proximity to the site,” it read.

“The closest schools are St Joseph’s Convent School and Wanstead Church School.

“Both are over 400 metres away from the proposed site location.”