The owners of Owton Manor Social Club, in Wynyard Road, Hartlepool, want permission to install the O2 mobile telephone mast on their building.

The club applied for planning permission last year but the application was rejected over public health fears and concerns that the height and design would be detrimental to the area.

Agents working on behalf of the owners of the club have applied for permission from Hartlepool Borough Council to change the covenant on the land.

The council sold the land to the club in 1957 subject to the covenant, which states that the land or building shouldn't be used for anything other than a social club.

The club needs permission to change the covenant before the telephone mast can be installed.

O2 has a phone mast on the Access to Learning Centre, at Brierton Community School, in Brierton Lane, but it has been looking for an alternative location in anticipation of the proposed closure of the school.

The issue was discussed at a meeting of the council's finance and efficiency portfolio, in Owton Manor Community Centre, in Wynyard Road.
Club agents wanted the portfolio holder Councillor Robbie Payne, to make a decision.

Coun Payne decided it would be against his principles to approve the change to the covenant and the decision was referred back to the planning committee.

He said: "As somebody who constantly votes against applications to erect masts in built-up areas, especially near houses and shops, I find myself in a bit of a quandary.

"I would find it uncomfortable to go against the decision of 15 or 16 other members. I will be going against my principles if I approve this now. I would like to see it sent back to planning."

Any decision on the installation of the telephone mast is subject to council planning permission.

O2 and Owton Manor Social Club must now decide if they want to appeal against the planning committee's decision or to re-submit a fresh application.

The telephone company may be in line for compensation if a suitable site isn't found because they would lose the use of the Brierton Lane site when the building is demolished.