An 18-metre high 5G pole will be built at a Stoneleigh road junction after plans were given the green light on appeal.

The scheme was originally rejected by Warwick District Council last September but a planning inspector has gone against the decision and given permission for the mast to be built.

The proposals, which were originally rejected due to their visual impact, were submitted by CK Hutchison Networks Ltd - which owns telecommunications and internet service provider Three.

"In the opinion of the local planning authority, the introduction of an 18-metre tall monopole in this open and rural position would cause unacceptable harm to the rural character and appearance of the area," the council's report said.

Adding: "Insufficient information has been submitted to demonstrate that the least harmful option to the surrounding area has been put forward."

Plans were originally rejected in September 2021 by Warwick District Council (Image via planning application)

But an appeal lodged by the Reading-based firm in October said the verge next to Stoneleigh Road, B4115 junction was the best place, and that there are "clear and demonstrable public benefits" from building the mast there.

"The area benefits from screening provided by mature trees and existing street furniture which will prevent the site from appearing incongruous," the appeal said.

"The site has been strategically situated away from the carriageway, on a grass verge, in order to maintain highways safety.

"The equipment is as far as possible from sensitive receptors such as residential properties so as to prevent any infringement upon the view from such properties and the free-flow of pedestrians within the area.

"The site has also been carefully selected in a position capable of providing essential new 5G coverage and associated internet provision for the area."

CK Hutchison Networks said they looked at a number of locations in Stoneleigh (Image via google.maps and planning application)

And the appeal decision by Mr R Hitchcock said the pole would not have a major impact on the area.

"Although the rural setting of the village is significant, the degree of change within the landscape would be minor and would not undermine the overriding rural character," he said.

CK Hutchison Networks said 4G and 5G mobile networks in the UK would be worth a combined £18.5bn by 2026.