A TELECOMS firm is to fight a decision to refuse planning permission for a giant phone mast in Barrhead.

Angry residents claim the 20-metre-high structure on the Fereneze Braes at Boylestone Road would be a “blot on the landscape” and a threat to the area’s wildlife.

On January 24, they won the first round in their battle when East Renfrewshire Council refused the proposal by Reading-based MBNL, which specialises in mobile phone infrastructure.

However, MBNL has now lodged an appeal with the Scottish Reporter, an arm of the Scottish Government.

After considering this appeal, a recommendation will be made to Scottish Ministers, who will have the final say.

Sixteen local residents met at the mast site, which is owned by Fereneze Properties, last month to launch a campaign against the controversial plans.

They only found out about the proposed development at the popular beauty spot when they saw the planning application by chance on the council’s website.

Around 500 people have signed a paper version of a petition, with hundreds adding their names to an online version in further protest at the proposed phone tower.

Kirsty Menzies, who is helping to lead the campaign, told the Barrhead News: “The mast would have a devastating effect on the character, views and biodiversity of the Fereneze Braes – an environmentally sensitive site within the East Renfrewshire greenbelt.

“It would tower over the homes of local residents, putting their property and health at risk, and spoil the enjoyment of people who come from miles around to walk here.

“I think we have a good case, considering the size of the mast, and would be happy to meet with anyone from the Scottish Reporter to air our concerns.”

A spokesperson for MBNL said: “An appeal for the mast proposal at Barrhead has been submitted and we await the outcome in due course.”