Residents Upset Over 5G Mast Replacing Coronation Bench
Residents of the picturesque village of Burstall, near Ipswich, are expressing their frustration over the approval of a 15-meter EE 5G mast, which they believe is a disrespectful replacement for a planned coronation bench and tree. The community had intended to install a commemorative bench and tree in honor of the upcoming coronation of King Charles III.
Local support for the bench was strong, with even Buckingham Palace sending a letter of appreciation to the village. Unfortunately, an application submitted by EE received approval from Babergh District Council in July, leading to disappointment among members of Burstall Parish Council.
Susan Frankis, clerk to Burstall Parish Council, expressed the community’s sentiments, saying, “The village commemorated the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 by dedicating a piece of land and planting a tree on what villagers call coronation corner, in the heart of Burstall.” The plan was to continue this tradition for the new king. “It was thought a handmade oak bench, with a carving commemorating the coronation, would be lovely,” she added.
“We also have a sizable oak tree that we had arranged for the Suffolk Lord Lieutenant to plant for us, but we have had to cancel the planting and village event because EE will not change their minds about choosing another site for the mast.”
The engraved bench, bearing the inscription “King Charles III Coronation 2023,” is currently stored in the parish council chairman’s garden and was funded by county councillor Christopher Hudson.
“We are upset because it is disrespectful to the King,” Mrs. Frankis noted. She mentioned that Buckingham Palace had welcomed the village’s plans, saying, “It said that this kind of thing is right up the King’s street, with the environment, so it ticks all the boxes for the King’s aspirations for the countryside going forward.”
County councillor Christopher Hudson also voiced his disappointment, calling the plans an “insult to His Majesty Charles III.” The Sun has reached out to Babergh District Council for their response on the matter.