An Oldham MP has asked for calmness as residents continue to protest against the installation of telecommunications infrastructure in Oldham.

Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton, shared a statement on his Facebook page on Monday (September 16) in response to the rollout of masts across parts of Oldham.

In his post, Mr McMahon said the government was seeking "additional powers or directions", however "the pace of reform" has not kept up with the speed of the rollout.

READ MORE: Oldham MPs calls on government for tougher 5G mast rules

He added that issues raised with the previous government were not addressed before the general election was called in May, but now the Department of Science and Technology is looking at changing the Code of Practice for Cabinet and Pole siting.

Mr McMahon said he would "welcome" changes to the code, which would "force operators to share infrastructure, allowing a fair market without so many cluttering masts, poles and cabinets on our streets".

He added that he was aware of "several disturbances" in the constituency but asked for calm "while the authorities do their due diligence".

READ MORE: Police called after man sits in hole in telecoms pole protest

To see Mr McMahon's statement in full, read below:

"Many residents have recently been in touch with my office regarding the continued rollout of telecommunications masts across Oldham.

"We are seeing the rollout continue in a way that impacts residents and communities and there is little doubt the impact on residential properties as well as the increase in street clutter has been left unchecked by the previous government.

"We have been working with residents for some time, but the pace of reform hasn’t kept up with the roll out. As we seek additional powers or directions it is little comfort if it comes too late for those being impacted right now.

"For instance we raised this numerous times with the government, including hosting a Westminster Hall Debate, whereby the then Conservative DSIT minister agreed the current rules and code needed looking at. Unfortunately, it seems this work was not undertaken before the election was called.

"I am pleased therefore that the Department of Science and Technology which met last week to look at changing the Code of Practice for Cabinet and Pole siting led by Minister Chris Bryant MP – I have asked for an update on this meeting and welcome as I have always stated changes to the code to force operators to share infrastructure, allowing a fair market without so many cluttering masts, poles and cabinets on our streets.

"In the end the local council are obliged to comply with the law for poles installations, which were introduced by the previous government in 2019.

"I have asked officials at the Council to consider all avenues to support residents and maintain and enforce all highways and health and safety regulations and laws. I am aware of several disturbances within the constituency with concerned residents, workers and the police and would ask for calm while the authorities do their due diligence, as has happened nearby. I know they are working hard to navigate this, and of course will need to comply with the current law in doing so.

"We are always willing to help on localised issues in the meantime, for instance we held a public workshop, whereby residents from across Oldham West, Chadderton & Royton came to talk directly with operators and find a way forward on suggested mast locations, to varying degrees of success. This was the best approach in limited options and for some it made a difference.

"If you have an issue with a specific site – please email my office at jim.mcmahon.mp@parliament.uk and my constituency team will look at raising the site as a matter of urgency."

A spokesperson for telecommunications infrastructure provider IX Wireless said: “We are one of several companies who has been looking to install street structures to improve broadband and communication services across the region.

“We have worked with local authorities and have met with local representatives, including local MP's, whenever concerns have been raised. We welcome further guidelines and will endeavour to work with local councils further.

“The industry is heavily regulated and all structures go through stringent tests and conform to industry and government standards.

“Where possible the company has changed the location of poles or used underground ducts.

“We also actively engage with the local authorities who are notified of the work that is taking place.

“Many people have welcomed investment in the roll-out of digital infrastructure, and IX Wireless believe the only way to level-up the region and move towards a digitally inclusive environment is to invest in a new innovative network which will give people the same opportunities as those across the country otherwise we are at risk of being left behind.

“The company has a strong record of good customer relations and we will continue to assist local communities where we can.”

"We also aim to help communities grow and thrive and donate 20% of our coverage to local charities, organisations, schools and families in need as FREE connections. Digital exclusion is a major issue across the North and the data is clear: access to better broadband options is directly linked to improved life outcomes.