RESIDENTS in a Worcester road won a major battle after plans to install a phone mast just yards from a primary school was rejected.

Vodafone has been told it would be "unacceptable" to put a mast up in Northwick Road, Northwick.

The news is a big boost for residents, who piled on the pressure in recent weeks by protesting to the city council about the plans.

A petition urging the authority to say no collected 300 signatures, not least because the mast would have sat 200 metres (656ft) from Northwick Manor Junior and Infant School.

Planning officer Alan Coleman granted them their wish by saying it would distort the character of the street.

He said: "My principle concern is that it would distort the street scene. I am very concerned about the impact it would have on the area, to the extent that I feel it is unacceptable.

"We had a vast number of objections from residents about this. We would only go for refusal if we were confident we could defend any appeal on a decision, and are confident of defending any appeal from Vodafone."

The company wanted to place the mast within the highway verge on Northwick Road opposite the Northwick Arms pub.

Vodafone said the 12 metre (39ft) high mast would have improved the ability of people in the area to use email and download pictures.

Northwick Road resident Angela Bond, aged 36, said: "This is very good news because it was a huge worry for residents around here.

"People were concerned about health risks, the effect it would have on the value of their properties, and the fact it was so close to a school.

"In the end it also came down to the fact we didn't want something that big in our street. The petition showed how much it bothered us."

Penelope Moulder, also of Northwick Road, said: "I am absolutely delighted and thrilled we have seen off this monstrosity. It was a joint effort from lots of people in campaigning against it.

"I would also like to say all residents are very grateful for the support shown by our local councillors."

The city council planning committee voted in favour of refusing Vodafone permission to install the mast.

Vodafone spokesman Rob Matthews said: "We have to review the reasons for the refusal before we make a decision on whether to appeal."

T-Mobile bid also rejected

It is the second phone mast rejection in the last week, after T-mobile was refused permission for one in the grounds of Tolladine Golf Club, off The Fairway.

The firm wanted to install a 15 metre (49ft) mast in club grounds designed as an imitation cypress tree.

City council planners said no on the grounds it would "intrude" upon the skyline and would spoil the character of the site.