Councillor Mike Bawden, leader of the Conservatives on Swindon Council, is demanding tighter planning regulations on mobile phone masts.

He said: "Mobile phone operators are getting away with murder because the planning legislation simply is not strict enough. These masts are a blight on the landscape and seem to be cropping up everywhere."

In January, telecommunications company Hutchison 3G fitted three mobile phone masts on top of Hickmans TV and Audio in Victoria Road, Old Town. Planning permission for the base station was obtained last year without it going to committee for consultation. And many nearby shops and businesses were unaware of the installation.

Coun Bawden (Old Town & Lawns) said: "The arrival of these masts perfectly illustrates how easy it is for mobile phone operators to damage our environment, and possibly our health, without informing the public. The situation is quite scandalous and must stop."

Now the mobile phone infrastructure is in place, he believes fewer masts should be built.

"For too long mobile phone operators have had free rein to mount these monstrosities. It is high time to redress the balance in favour of residents and the environment," he added.

Swindon MP Julia Drown is also keen to hear voters' views on masts. She said: "I would like to know what my constituents think, regarding both the health and environment issues involved with mobile phones. Over the years I have only received a handful of concerns from residents."

The MP, who represents South Swindon, highlighted the Government's efforts to investigate the full effect of radiation emitted from mobile phone masts on human health.

She said: "I am pleased that the Government has done a lot of scientific work and health fears have not been backed up by these investigations. However, in response to the concerns, I understand councils have been advised against allowing mobile phone masts near schools."

Stressing the importance of aesthetic considerations, Ms Drown said: "The environment and street scene are affected by mobile phone masts. Perhaps the planning situation with smaller masts needs to be looked at."