Concerns over the installation of poles and masts throughout Oldham have continued to grow among both residents and councillors.

In recent weeks, many residents have expressed their anger towards the erection of the masts, designed to help improve 5G and broadband in residential areas.

Among some of the gripes residents have shared is the lack of consultation, with residents finding out the poles will be installed without having any say.

This is due to the permitted development rights, which allow the masts to be erected without having to going through the typical planning process as long as they are below a certain height.

Now, local councillors from different parties have shared their disapproval of the lack of consultation.

Leader of Oldham Council Amanda Chadderton of Labour has shared a letter she wrote to Secretary for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, requesting him to ensure plans to install the masts go through the local planning process.

Cllr Chadderton wrote: "Over recent weeks residents across Oldham have been getting in touch with myself, fellow Councillors and our Members of Parliament around the installation of these masts with little – if any – consultation with local communities.

"I write to ask you as Secretary of State responsible for both the planning process and communities, that you intervene to strengthen planning laws to ensure new masts must go through the local planning process."

Cllr Chris Gloster, deputy leader of the Oldham Liberal Democrats, said the lack of consultation with residents has been "breath-taking", adding that the current legislation is "not fit for purpose" and that the government needs to urgently address this.

Dave Arnott, a Conservative councillor for Royton North, said he sympathised with residents and that it "cannot be right" that telecoms companies can "roll into town" and put up the poles without properly consulting residents.

He said: "The prospect of coming home from work in the evening to find a pole or mast erected directly outside your home when you have not been properly consulted is shocking."

Masts have already been installed in areas including Royton, Shaw and Chadderton so far.

When previously contacted, a spokesperson for telecoms company IX Wireless said: "Before erecting a new pole, we notify residents as part of our process.

"The company is keen to improve our communications where we can, and in many towns and cities we have weekly meetings with council executives and elected officials to help resolve any communication issues.

"We welcome any input which can help to improve our service.

"The roll out enables us to provide cheaper broadband to communities across Oldham."