Alnwick Civic Society criticises fibre broadband cabinet location

A conservation group has expressed concern about the installation of a fibre optic broadband street cabinet in a prominent position in the historic Northumberland market town.

Alnwick Civic Society criticised BT, which is carrying out the work, for choosing to position the cabinet close to The Fleece Inn, within eyeshot of the 15th century Bondgate Tower.

Members of the group told the Northumberland Gazette that the unit will spoil the view for tourists visiting the town, as well as create a potential road safety hazard.

Although it acknowledged that fibre broadband is a major benefit for the community, the society argued that another location or design for the cabinet could be found.

"The proposed cabinet is very bulky and a potential hazard for pedestrians crossing the street," explained chairman Peter Ennor.

"We are convinced that BT engineers could find a better location, or choose a more appropriate design."

Planning permission is not usually required for the installation of these cabinets, but the society argued that each development should be considered on its merits.