Mobile phone and broadband provider EE has submitted an application to install a new 65-foot mast to improve coverage for locals living in the north west Highlands.
The application, which has been submitted to Highland Council, will consist of the installation of the mast that will host antennas, dishes, equipment cabinets, a generator and satellite dish all within a fenced compound area.
Access to the antenna will also be installed to the site east of Portlevorchy near Rhiconich.
Locals in the area have reported poor mobile phone signal with broadband connections failing as some households are left without any cover.
Graham Wild, chairman of Kinlochbervie Community Council and a local resident, said he has had to call for assistance from Northsat who offer solutions to provide rural broadband and digital television.
Mr Wild, who runs a self-catering business in the small village, has said bookings from agents now have to be sent via post rather than email due to the connection issues.
Mr Wild said: “As far as I am aware in my capacity as chairman of the community council there have been no objections.
“There are four households which will be affected by this.
“The mast would give me internet as I have none at present and there is no sign of BT putting in fibre optic or similar.
“Personally we have not objected because hopefully it will improve our lot as far as internet is concerned and as far as I am aware there have been no objections through the community council or from those living locally.
“Being chairman of the community council it, has been a bit difficult not having access to email and with our self-catering business, all bookings are being sent by our agent through the post.
“It would be a lot easier if it were sent by email.
“There is no mobile phone signal at the moment. We have to drive two miles to the end of the road, where the police station is, where we can park up and get a bit of signal there.
“It would definitely be welcomed if it provides better mobile phone signal and broadband.”
An EE spokeswoman said: “As part of our ongoing commitment to improve rural connectivity, we are building a new 4G mast in the Portlevorchy area of the north west Highlands.
“We always seek to minimise visual impact when we’re looking to build new masts and strictly follow all planning procedures.”
