Plans for an electricity generator at the back of Honister Slate Mine have been agreed by the Lake District National Park Authority after a number of power problems.
Mitie, on behalf of mobile phone operator EE, needed the facility to support a new 49ft telecoms mast
which was granted permission in January, 2021.
The applicants said: “This application is submitted on behalf of EE who are in the process of upgrading their commercial networks to deliver an upgraded blue light service known as the Emergency Services Network (ESN) across England, Scotland and Wales.
“This would replace the previous Airwave system which now lacks the technical capability required for the three emergency services.”
Planning permission was sought to relocate the generator to the east of the site.
Approving the application, a report by LDNPA planners said: “The applicant states that there have been a number of issues securing a permanent power supply to support the approved mast, and the location for the generator previously approved is no longer suitable.
“The principle of siting the mast and associated equipment to the south of Honister Slate Mine was accepted as the development was required to provide communications for emergency services in an area which otherwise would not have coverage.
“The generator is required to support this service and there is therefore an essential need for a rural location.”
Consultee Borrowdale Parish Council made no comment about the proposals to the LDNPA, and Natural England had no objections.
