A decision by Government inspectors to refuse the building of a mobile phone mast on health grounds, could have implications for similar plans in the North-East.

Mobile phone company Orange wanted to erect the 30ft mast in a residential area of Harrow, in London, but the council refused permission.

When Orange appealed, a Government planning inspector upheld the council's ruling.

It is understood to be the first time the Planning Inspectorate has refused permission on health grounds.

Andrew Hubbard and his neighbours began campaigning for more research into the health risks when One2One revealed it wanted to put a mast near their homes in West Cornforth, County Durham.

They fear masts could cause cancers such as leukaemia in children.

He said: "It's fantastic this has happened. It gives everyone the opportunity to try and fight their case on health grounds.

"It's something that has needed to happen for a long time - for the Government to realise that people are worried about the health risks."

North-East MEP Stephen Hughes, who presented a complaint to the European Commission calling for more research on the risks on behalf of the West Cornforth residents, said it was a great breakthrough.

"It's such an important precedent because I think a lot of planning authorities have been reluctant to make the first move," he said.

Sedgefield councillor Alan Hodgson said: "I think it will have a massive impact. It will be very interesting to watch, particularly from a planning point of view."

Inspectors are expected to prepare guidelines for local authorities advising them that mobile phone companies should provide exact details of the risks from radiation when applying to put up masts.

Ken Hughes, head of planning with Teesdale District Council, said: "Up until now local planning authorities have not been able to argue about the need for the mast, only where it is sited and its design. Every case has to be judged on its own merit."

A spokesman for Orange said the company was disappointed with the Planning Inspector's decision and was "considering the way forward." He said all masts complied with International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection guidelines