Manx Telecom has won its planning battle over new mobile phone masts at Peel Cathedral.

The company wanted to site masts in the tower at the historic building on Derby Road but had faced local opposition to the scheme. A leaflet campaign and a public meeting saw residents voice their fears over radiation from the masts.

MT applied for registered building consent for the telecommunication equipment which it will now install around 50 feet up in the bell tower. In its application, the company said better 3G coverage was needed because more and more people are using smartphones for things like web browsing, email and social media.

Despite fears from those opposing the masts, Manx Telecom pointed out the equipment followed international guidelines about radiation.

The planning committee approved the application last week giving the go-ahead to imprive reception in the town and the decision becomes final on January 23.