Local people would have the final say over the location of mobile phone masts under a Tory government, according to plans unveiled by the Opposition today.

In what the Tories have billed as "the biggest shake-up in planning rules since the introduction of the 1984 Telecommunications Act", all new masts would require full planning permission, while health concerns would have to be taken into account, and visual intrusion reduced.

The changes would mean an end to "cheap and poorly designed structures blighting Britain's communities", the party said.

Shadow Local and Devolved Government Secretary Caroline Spelman warned that her five-point plan was necessary over fears that the expansion of 3G technology could result in an estimated 100,000 more masts across the country – in addition to new ‘Tetra' and Network Rail masts.

Launching the new Conservative campaign, 'You decide where they go', Mrs Spelman said: "The erection of poorly-located masts is causing considerable disquiet in many parts of the country. There is a presumption in favour of development inherent in the current planning system, which overrides local, environmental and safety concerns."

By empowering local government, town councillors would be accountable for location decisions and councils would be allowed to take health concerns into account when masts are proposed near homes, hospitals and schools. Current national planning guidance prohibits this.

A single process would also be used for deciding all mast sites, including those on Network Rail or church property.

The Tories have also pledged to require mast operators to demonstrate that developments do not lead to unacceptable visual damage.

Mrs Spelman said: "Conservatives will champion the interests of local residents and address the feelings of powerlessness and frustration experienced living under the threat of badly sited masts. Local councillors, answerable to local residents via the ballot box, should have the final say on where they go."

(gmcg)