Hayley Millar: "The number of masts has increased dramatically"

The prediction has come from mobile phone firms Orange and Vodafone in evidence to the environment committee.

The companies said the masts were needed to meet the rising demand for mobile phones.

But they said the size of the aerials would come down and many would be more like lamp-posts or even burglar alarms.

Health risk denied

The firms dismissed suggestions of any health risks and said if the planning authorities insisted on large exclusion zones of up to 200 metres around masts, whole areas of the city centres would be without mobile phone links.

Andy Kerr: Committee convener

The committee's inquiry is being launched amid concern over the effects of microwave emissions from the growing number of masts being constructed across Scotland.

It is taking evidence from local community groups, telecommunication companies, the Department of Trade and Industry, environmental bodies and health experts.

So far there has been no substantial scientific research into the safety of masts and members of the Scottish Parliament are facing calls to remedy the situation.

Community groups and environmentalists are also due to ask for a review of current planning laws which mean telecommunications companies do not need permission to put up a mast if it is under 15m in height.

Stricter controls

Committee convener, Andy Kerr, said stricter controls over the siting of mobile phone masts in Scotland could be recommended if the inquiry finds public health concerns are justified.

Mr Kerr said the Scottish Executive is in a position to issue planning advice notes but can go further if that is thought necessary by introducing legislation enabling councils to go through the full planning process before granting permission for a mast.