PLANS for a 108-feet radio mast in the heart of Malvern's Conser-vation Area have been described as "horrific".

Network Rail wants to build the mast at Great Malvern railway station, yards away from a primary school.

The company is installing a new communicating system called GSM-R in the wake of rail disasters in recent years.

The latticework mast planned is 33 metres high. For comparison, the TV transmitter on the side of North Hill above Worcester Road is 36 metres high.

Network Rail does not need permission to build the mast, which is regarded as "permitted development" under planning law.

However, the company notified Malvern Hills District Council as a courtesy, and now the council is hoping to take action to block it.

MHDC can issue a special order preventing the building of the mast, but it would need permission from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

At a meeting of the planning committee on Tuesday, members are being recommended to support this course of action.

Residents of Imperial Road, near the station, reacted with surprise on learning of the plan.

Gillian Protheroe said: "Living in the Conservation Area, we've got to get special permission to put up a satellite dish, so it seems crazy they can build this without asking anyone."

Gordon Wilson said: "I'm shocked to hear about it. It will be an eyesore in the Conservation Area."

Ken Vose said: "It's utterly unsuitable for the area."

Katherine Barber of Malvern Civic Society said: "This is absolutely horrific. Putting up a structure like this in an area renowned for its beauty is just not on. The one on North Hill should never have been allowed.

"We will do all we can to support opposition to this plan."

The mast is just across the railway line from Malvern Parish School.

Deputy head Richard Kieran said: "It is something the governors will need to consider in conjunction with the LEA and the diocese, with everybody acting in the best interests of the children and the school."

A Network Rail spokesman said the company would be happy to discuss the mast plan with MHDC.