Controversial plans for the installation a 15-metre high 5G broadband pole in Carlisle have been refused by the council.

In April, Carlisle City Council received an application for the mast next to the Sainsbury’s service station on Bridge Street, submitted by Hutchison 3G Ltd.

The fifth generation (5G) of mobile wireless communications technology is thought to be capable of delivering browsing and download speeds 10 to 20 times faster than the 4G network.

Readers unreservedly expressed their view that refusing permission would not be beneficial for the city, particularly with other towns and cities looking to invest in more infrastructure of this kind.

Liam Harrison asserted his belief that Carlisle will simply be left behind as technology advances.

He said: So Ambleside has 5g but Carlisle is left behind as usual, typical of this place!

Similarly, Martin Harkins said: "Carlisle will left behind again."

Other readers offered their concerns that the refusal to grant permission would serve to simply hinder Carlisle's development going forward.

Dylan Bell said: "Literally everywhere in the uk has 5G now and these clowns still living in the stone ages even Windermere has 5G!!"

Martin Cosham stated: "They should help with digital connectivity."

Jon Graham added: "5G is coming to every part of the UK over the next few months, but not if you live in Carlisle!

And finally, Richard Adair concluded: "Nearby Dixon’s Chimney is almost 6 times taller at 88m, is that an eyesore?"