A MOBILE phone company's plan to put up a 12 metre high phone mast in a scenic area of Winterbourne has been turned down by planning watchdogs.

Vodafone had hoped to erect the phone mast on Hicks Common to improve its 3G network coverage in Winterbourne.

But planning officers at South Gloucestershire Council refused the application this week on the grounds the mast would detract from the character of green belt land.

The area features a revived duck pond, funded by the village council, and a number of popular walks.

More than 100 villagers had objected to the mast, claiming it would be an eyesore and could cause a possible health risk.

One resident had put up a large colour banner to highlight villager opposition to the phone mast plan.

Steward Hemsley, of Cherry Orchard, has two children under the age of 10.

He said: "We obviously welcome the council's decision. The proposal was completely inappropriate for this area of the village.

"It is a scenic part where people come and visit to see the duck pond or walk in the nearby fields.

"No one wanted to see a mobile phone mast here."

Mr Hemsely added he was concerned Vodafone may appeal against the decision.

He said: "A report on the decision does highlight special circumstances, such as evidence of a lack of alternative sites the company could use if they wanted to appeal. We are keeping a close eye out."

The council's planning officer Vivian Butt wrote in a report with the decision: "Whilst it is acknowledged that there may be a network need in this instance, it is considered that this does not outweigh the harm caused by the addition of a 12m monopole in this green belt location.

"The site is sensitive in nature. It is located in a rural setting which is open in terms of views, especially to the north, east and south of the site.

"The proposal if permitted would result in the erosion of the green belt and would be detrimental to the visual amenitites of not only the immediate locality but also the wider environs."

Rob Matthews, spokesman for Vodafone, said: "A phone mast is still needed in Winterbourne to give a satisfactory 3G coverage to the village. We have yet to decide our next course of action."