Plans for a replacement 20-metre high 4G telecommunications mast near Tenby have been given the go-ahead by Pembrokeshire County Council.

Radio site infrastructure provider Cellnex UK, through agent Pegasus Planning Group Ltd, sought permission to replace an existing 13-metre mast with the 20 metre one, along with associated antennae and related equipment at Petals Plant Nursery, Strawberry Lane, Penally.

A supporting statement said the application is for a mobile base station for the mobile network operators (MNOs) EE Ltd and Hutchison 3G UK Ltd, in conjunction with Mobile Broadband Network Limited (MBNL), the site owned/operated by Cellnex UK.

It added: “The deployment of upgraded telecommunications apparatus will utilise the MNOs’ existing 3G and 4G networks such as the base station already existing at the application site. As such, the application site is likely to carry different mobile connectivity services in parallel, with high data uses operating through the new 4G higher capacity network apparatus subject of this application.

“Unlike earlier generations of mobile connectivity, the proposal has more significant technical and operational requirements and this has implications on the amount, height, position and design of the new base station.”

It went on to say: “The application site has been selected by the operator as this will provide the required level of network coverage while properly meeting national town planning policy objectives for the shared use of existing electronic communications masts and sites, in this case owned/operated by Cellnex UK.

“Economically, the upgrade of the telecommunications infrastructure is essential to supporting local businesses, residents, and visitors in Penally and the wider Tenby area by delivering improved digital connectivity, which is vital for economic resilience, flexible working, and remote access to services.

“Socially, enhanced mobile and data coverage will contribute to improved communications, particularly in rural areas, supporting social inclusion and ensuring that residents, including vulnerable populations, can access essential digital services such as healthcare, education, and emergency response systems.”

An officer report recommending approval said: “The application site currently includes an existing telecommunications monopole. Notwithstanding its height at 13 metres, it is not a conspicuous development in the immediate vicinity.”

It added: “It is considered that the replacement mast would only have a limited additional visual impact. The monopole would be approximately seven metres higher than the existing monopole and it would have a different configuration, with an additional dish and additional antennas. The proposed development would still be perceived as a piece of telecommunication equipment of a modest scale.”

The application was conditionally approved under delegated powers.