PLANS for a 30-metre-high telecommunications mast in Paisley that could prevent a “black hole” in network coverage developing near Glasgow Airport have been unveiled.

The proposals would see the mast hoisted into place at the iPark car parking hub in Inchinnan Road.

Pegasus Group have submitted an application for prior approval for the equipment, which would provide 3G and 4G coverage on behalf of Mobile Broadband Network Limited (MBNL), which is the infrastructure provider for EE and H3G UK.

The mast is required due to the planned decommissioning of an existing site within the airport, with the applicants saying it would provide replacement coverage to avoid a 'not spot,' where internet access is not available.

Planning papers submitted to Renfrewshire Council state: “The continuity of service is required in line with the operator’s Ofcom licence obligations but also to maintain a level of coverage which customers using smartphone handsets expect within the context of a major international airport.

“As such, the application is key to avoiding a coverage black hole to develop in an area where network demand is extremely high due to usage generated from users of the airport, surrounding highway network, commercial areas and residential areas surrounding the site.”

The mast would be made of galvanised steel and the site has been chosen “to minimise overall visual impact,” with documents confirming it would be “set against the backdrop” of the White Cart Viaduct.

Council planners will consider the application in due course.