IX Wireless is set to carry out roadworks across Oldham over the next few weeks.

The firm, alongside its sister firm ‘6G Internet Limited,’ has seen controversy over the last few months.

Residents across the borough have previously complained about the installation of masts providing 5G internet. 

In Royton, residents and councillors raised concerns over the masts at a public meeting earlier this month.

At the meeting, one of the organisers, Christine Turner, said: “People are coming home from work and finding 40ft masts in front of their homes.

“I don't think this is acceptable.” 

Oldham councillors in attendance explained how they have no say in the matter and the only way to prevent the masts being installed whenever and wherever was through a change in legislation, which is down to the government, as it is considered ‘permitted development’ under the law.

Sign up to our newsletters to get the latest stories sent straight to your inbox.

Other residents have called the masts ‘monstrosities’ as they have popped up near parks or homes.

Works taking place on 10 streets across the borough

The controversial firm is set to carry out works on 10 Oldham streets in Chadderton, Springhead, Watersheddings, and Hollins over the next few weeks.

Works are set to commence on May 2 and May 3.

Hollins Road, Carr House Road, Cobden Street, Derby Street, Gainsborough Road, Gartside Street, Godson Street, Nimble Nook, Ronald Street, and Whetstone Hill Lane are all set to have works carried out by the firm, with traffic controls in place on affected streets.

Controversy over money changing hands

IX Wireless came to more prominence this year after a Sky News investigation in January revealed it had donated more than £138,000 to 24 MPs in three years.

Conservative Bury MP James Daly was the joint-highest individual recipient of funding from the company, at £8,500.

Labour Bury MP Christian Wakeford received £3,500 from the company over the same period.

None of Oldham’s MPs declared that they had received money from the company.

In response to a Freedom of Information Act request, Oldham Council has confirmed it has not received payments from the firm.

When previously contacted by The Oldham Times, a spokesperson for 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 rollout enables us to provide cheaper broadband to communities across Oldham."

Correction 4/5/2023: This article originally had an image of a 5G mast which IX Wireless says it did not erect. We apologise for this error.