The local planning authority considers that, due to its siting, height and appearance, the installation of a second mast on this site in a prominent location within the countryside would appear as a further incongruous feature and give rise to 'mast clutter', to the detriment of the open character of the area. The local planning authority is not satisfied that the applicant has demonstrated that the possibility of a more suitable alternative siting of the mast cannot be provided on technical grounds. The proposal would, therefore, be contrary to Strategy Policy 8 of the Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Structure Plan and Policies CT/1 and EV/37 of the Borough of Charnwood Local Plan.

The local planning authority considers that a second mast in this location would appear as a further stark and incongruous feature within the landscape when viewed from the Rothley Conservation Area and, in particular, from Town Green Street and its environs. In the opinion of the local planning authority, the development would fail to either preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the setting of the conservation area. In this respect the proposed development is in conflict with Environment Policy 1 of the Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Structure Plan, Policy EV/10 of the Borough of Charnwood Local Plan and Government guidance in PPG15, Planning and the Historic Environment.