A data company has unveiled proposals to build a new 5G mast in Renfrew.

A letter has been sent out to councillors stating CK Hutchison Networks Ltd is planning to erect the structure on Paisley Road between numbers 234 and 248, adjacent to the bus shelter.

The mast – which is set to be more than 20m tall – would be operated by H3G, better known as the phone network Three.

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The letter from consultants WHP Telecoms has been shared with residents on social media by Renfrew South and Gallowhill councillor Jim Paterson.

No formal planning application has yet been submitted, but the letter does state “several steps” have already been taken to identify the site.

WHP Telecoms said it had examined the Radio Communications Agency Mast Register, its record of other operators’ sites and the council’s own mast register ahead of selecting the spot.

The firm also said it had analysed the council’s development plan and any relevant planning history at the site.

Masts are designed to maximise network signal within an area.

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The overall performance rate of 5G – which was introduced in 2019 – is said to be up to 100 times faster than that of 4G, offering download speeds of between 10 and 20 gigabytes per second.

This means it would take around two minutes to download a three-hour film.

Although there are no formal plans for the public to comment on at this stage, they will be able to provide feedback via Councillor Paterson.

Those who wish to share their thoughts should email the SNP elected member via cllr.jim.paterson@renfrewshire.gov.uk Residents will be updated when an application has been submitted to the council.

If the plans receive formal objections from the community or any council departments, they could be put before the planning board for a final decision.