Telecommunications development and environmentally sensitive features

Wherever possible telecommunications development should seek to avoid sensitive features and locations of archaeological, built or natural heritage value. This includes archaeological remains, listed buildings and conservation areas, areas of outstanding natural beauty, sites of nature conservation importance, sites where there are protected species, local landscape policy areas and other environmental designations. Applicants should submit suitable evidence to show that alternative locations in less sensitive areas have been investigated and cannot be used. Where such locations cannot be avoided extra care will be required to ensure that the visual and environmental impact of the telecommunications apparatus and any ancillary works, such as an access track or power line, is minimised.