Work to replace the mobile telecommunications mast on Wilford Road – which was originally scheduled to take place almost a month ago – is now set to happen this week.
After being delayed by adverse weather following initial groundwork for the new mast and cabinets in January, the fifty foot tall ‘mono-pole’ alongside Wilford Road bordering Ruddington Grange Golf Course is due to be swapped for a new one between Monday 2nd and Friday 6th March. Further traffic delays along the B680 are likely – with two-way traffic lights in use – although contractors are saying the work can all be done off-peak this time.
As we previously reported, the original installation by Telefónica UK Limited (which operates the O2 network) over-ran into December 2017 after contractors discovered the electrical supply they planned to run from The Lodge Boutique B’n’B nearby was not sufficient to carry the extra 50amp load they needed to power the new mast. This resulted in a large diesel generator appearing on the verge alongside Wilford Road for several weeks to make it operational. Then followed further roadworks to dig a trench to the opposite side of Wilford Road where a new pole-mounted transformer was erected to achieve a suitable connection from the National Grid. Meantime villagers complaining that the prominent white mast was visually inappropriate within a row of mature trees had to wait several months for it to be painted a more sympathetic green colour.
Now eyebrows have been raised that, having been up for only two and a half years, this pole needs replacing already. O2 mobile users thinking this pain will at least mean the gain of the latest 5G technology in Ruddington are set to be disappointed – as RUDDINGTON.info has been told this mast will still only be 4G, although it will offer improved performance.
Meantime motorists and NCT Navy 3 bus passengers are being warned to expect some disruption during this week. Whether or not the replacement mast which appears will again be white – or already painted green this time – waits to be seen!
For details of further Ruddington roadworks over the next few weeks please click >>HERE<<.
