Councillors are opposing plans for a 5G radio station in Folkestone on safety grounds - despite the government insisting the technology poses no public health risk.

The proposals will allow for faster mobile internet coverage for residents as well as improved phone signal once work is complete.

Antennas reaching 17 metres - the height of almost four double-decker buses stacked on top of each other - would be installed near Folkestone College.

But members of Folkestone Town Council have objected the plans, raising concerns over the effects of "certain radio frequencies" on children and wildlife.

Town and district councillor Jackie Meade (Lab) told KentOnline she believes the masts should not be placed near houses or schools.

"With regards to any radio base stations, there is still ongoing debate worldwide as to the effects of 5G signal on wildlife and particularly young children," she said.

"My belief is, until 100% proven safe, any such bases should be positioned well away from residential [areas] and in particular schools.

"This may sound a little strange but certain radio frequencies have been proven to have a detrimental effect and I for one would rather take a precautionary approach when it comes to the health of children."

The antennas would be installed on the footpath adjacent to 40 Shorncliffe Road, near the adult-learning college which also has a junior site for students aged 14 who want to leave school after Year 9.

Despite the concerns raised by town councillors, the government considers exposure to 5G radio waves to have a "low" impact.

In response to a petition last year calling for the technology to be prohibited, which gained 10,000 signatures, ministers said advice published by the UK Health Security Agency in 2019 "remains unchanged".

The advice says: “It is possible that there may be a small increase in overall exposure to radio waves when 5G is added to an existing network or in a new area.

"However, the overall exposure is expected to remain low relative to guidelines and, as such, there should be no consequences for public health.”

Plans for similar masts have sparked controversy across Kent, more often over fears the large structures will spoil the landscape.

The company behind the Folkestone project, CEP Telecoms, insists no health issues arise from telecommunication base stations and 5G.

Manager Rob Poulter said: "The purpose of the proposal is to help fill the coverage gaps in this area.

"The site has been identified as the location that would provide the highest yield of coverage within this area from a singular mast.

"It is important to note that for the coverage to be effective, the masts need to be located nearby to users. This location has been picked as it allows for a telecoms mast to be nearby to users whilst also yielding the best level of coverage from one mast."

He says the site is also "ideal" as it is not directly outside someone's house.

"This means that properties will not be overlooking the site," Mr Poulter added.

A decision is now due to be made by Folkestone and Hythe District Council with the plans still under consideration and the latest a decision is due by is April 2.

Folkestone College has been contacted for comment.