PLANS for a 108ft radio mast in the heart of Malvern's conservation area have been described as "horrific".

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

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

The planned latticework mast is 33 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 (MHDC) 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.

Surprise

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

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

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

Katherine Barber of Malvern Civic Society said it was absolutely horrific.

"Putting up a structure like this in an area renowned for its beauty is just not on."

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

"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," said deputy head Richard Kieran.

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