LATEST technology which could revolutionise the use of mobile phones and other wireless devices is coming to Keighley.

The town centre is among the first areas in West Yorkshire set to benefit from the introduction of a 5G – or fifth generation – network.

It will mean massively faster download speeds.

Plans have been put forward by EE and 3G UK to upgrade an existing mast at the top of New Devonshire House, in Devonshire Street, Keighley.

It is one of three planning applications submitted to Bradford Council to install new equipment in the district.

The Keighley proposal has so far met with one objection, from a resident voicing concerns about the potential health implications of increased levels of wireless radiation.

But the initiative has been widely welcomed.

The town’s MP, John Grogan, said: “It is exciting that the centre of Keighley could be one of the first places in West Yorkshire to benefit from 5G.

“Experts have told MPs that the sky is the limit about how 5G might benefit our economy and society, because of its capacity to handle more data and provide instant response times.

“It is about far more than individuals going online – transport, healthcare and manufacturing could all benefit.

“It’s also worth noting that Public Health England has concluded, based on a review of existing research, that 5G technology is safe as the exposure to radio waves will be within the international guideline levels – just as is currently the case with 4G.”

Paul Howard, manager of Keighley Business Improvement District, said the move would provide a huge boost.

"We welcome the roll-out of new technology that will be beneficial to visitors and businesses in Keighley town centre," he added.

"It will complement the investment we have recently made in free Wi-Fi technology aimed at keeping people connected whilst they work, shop or relax in the town centre."

A recent report by Barclays claimed that a strong 5G network, which will be extended to other parts of the UK during the year, could boost Yorkshire’s economy by £1 billion by 2025.

Many smartphones currently operate using the slower, 4G technology.

The planning applications, which could be decided on later this month, stress the importance of upgrading equipment to pave the way for the development.

EE told the Keighley News that the launch of 5G was "another milestone" for the UK.

"It will increase reliability and speeds and keep our customers connected where they need it most," said a spokesman.

"We’ll keep evolving as we move to one, smart network. We have an ambition to connect our customers to 4G, 5G or Wi-Fi 100 per cent of the time."

The company refutes suggestions of any risk to health.

"All wireless technologies are rolled-out under strict guidelines which are based on medical studies and reviewed on an ongoing basis," said the spokesman.

"That includes all wireless technologies used globally and in the UK – 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G.

"There are strict rules on the amount of power that can be broadcast from a mobile site – governed by an organisation called ICNIRP.org, which acts as the health watchdog for the mobile industry. All 5G will be rolled-out within those guidelines.

"There are no proven health concerns around 5G – or other mobile technologies deployed within the health-oriented guidelines – and it’s important that the facts are explained so the public is informed and not misled."