HEALTH worries have caused a council to refuse an application to build a mobile phone tower on farm land.

BT Cellnet sought to put up a 15m lattice tower, nine antennae, communication dishes and equipment cabin at Three Gates Farm, Dalton Piercy, near Hartlepool.

Hartlepool Borough Council had the right to refuse the application on grounds of its position and appearance.

The council decided that the 15m tower was too big for the area and would not be in keeping with nearby buildings.

Members also expressed concern that it would obstruct the view for people living in Meadow View, a house near the farm, as well as other nearby residents.

There were also concerns about health, especially for youngsters using a nearby riding school.

Prior approval for the mast was refused