Three huge masts planned for Middleton

Monday, 7 July 2025 14:12

By George Lythgoe

Lattice tower planned for land near North Manchester Golf Club in Middleton.

Three huge 5G masts could soon be built across Middleton.

Plans have been tabled for 20m, 25m and 30m masts that would help boost 4G and 5G connectivity in the Rochdale borough.

The town of Middleton has become known for being a network dead spot, leading to a campaign from Heywood and Middleton North MP Elsie Blundell to improve the network locally.

Telecoms company Cornerstone are behind the proposals for two of the masts at Cinder Hill Farm, off Thornham Lane, and land at Middleton Cricket Club, off Hollin Lane. The masts would be 20m and 25m high respectively.

The third mast, set to be 30m high, would be built on land at North Manchester Golf Club off Manchester Old Road by a separate telecoms company, JET Network Solutions Ltd.

If approved, all three towers would be built with equipment cabinets at the base with antennae and dishes on them.

These plans are all part of the government’s commitment to supporting the delivery of ‘next-generation connectivity to communities across the UK by driving towards nationwide gigabit broadband and 5G coverage by 2030’.

Planning papers from Cornerstone, outlining the benefits of the masts, read: “Mobile connectivity is essential to the future success of the economy.

“The combined value of 4G and 5G mobile connectivity is estimated to add £18.5bn to the economy by 2026. Numbers of this scale cannot be underestimated.

“Mobile connectivity is essential to creating a better society. Digital inclusion can help people gain employment, become more financially secure and improve health and well-being.

“Mobile connectivity is essential to fulfilling the potential of new technologies.

“Innovations such as artificial intelligence and connected cars will change how we work, spend our leisure time, and run our public services.”

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