Bradley Gerrard

Devon County Council is considering changing its policy to allow mobile network operators to install 5G equipment on council-owned infrastructure such as lampposts, potentially generating several hundred pounds per site annually. A cabinet report highlights both economic benefits and earlier health concerns, noting current evidence does not show adverse effects from low‑level radiofrequency fields. Larger installations on buildings or bridges could yield significantly higher revenue. The draft policy will be debated by the council cabinet on 15 July.

Plans submitted by McDonald's propose demolishing the Vauxhall Eden site in Honiton to build a 24‑hour restaurant and drive‑through with 59 seats and 30 parking spaces. The company says the multi‑million‑pound investment would create up to 120 jobs and serve local workers, with potential indoor and outdoor seating and children’s play equipment. Planning documents reference the need to complete an access road approved historically to support the site’s viability.