Outline approval has been given to build a new 5G mast in Warwick to help provide network connections for emergency service vehicles.

EE had applied for planning permission to build a new 20-metre mast next to Edgehill Drive roundabout to replace its existing pole near Tournament Fields Business Park.

The mobile telecommunications company said its existing pole must be decommissioned because the landowner wants to develop the site.

"There is an urgent requirement to decommission and remove the existing installation," the application submitted to Warwick District Council said.

"Therefore, a new location for a replacement installation in order to maintain and improve coverage to this area is required."

It added: "Should this proposal not proceed, the area will be left with significantly reduced coverage or no coverage whatsoever in the future."

EE said the mast will help service voice calls and include provision for 3G/4G and 5G data use.

"As you may be aware, EE have been awarded the contract to provide network services to the emergency services, and as such this site is required to provide coverage for all the blue light services," the application said.

The existing and approved new location for the 5G mast (Image via google.maps/planning application)

Granting permission, a WDC report said: "The supporting site information submitted with the application sets out that there is a clear need for a new mast in this area to deliver the 5G service of the relevant provider.

"In regards to siting, a total of twenty alternative potential site options within the locale of the proposed mast location and that to be replaced were identified, reviewed, and ultimately discounted."

It added: "Notwithstanding this, it is accepted that the proposed scheme provides the most suitable siting option over those identified and discounted with regards to the range of assessment factors identified including network coverage, building suitability and visual prominence."