Plans to remove 31 BT phone boxes

BT wants to remove 31 public call boxes in Northamptonshire

Proposals to remove 31 public telephone boxes in east Northamptonshire have been put forward.

Phone company BT has started a programme to reduce the number of public call boxes, saying that 60% of its payphones no longer cover costs.

East Northamptonshire Council's policy and resources committee is looking at the plans on Monday.

A report to the committee said the call boxes are particularly important where there is no mobile reception.

'Consultation period'

They are also vital to young people and people who do not have mobile or home telephone lines.

The report said BT had to allow a 90 day consultation period when members of the public and town and parish councils can comment on the proposals.

"The local authority has the power to veto removal of payphones, if appropriate, following the consultation period," the report said.

Initial comments on the proposals must be received by 13 July.

The telephone boxes which BT proposes to remove include ones in Achurch, Great Addington, Apethorpe Ashton, Brigstock, Chelveston Deenethorpe, Denford, Hemington, Islip, Nassington, Oundle, Ringstead, Rushden Stanwick, Sudborough, Thrapston, Titchmarsh, Twywell, Wakerley, Warmington, Woodford and Woodnewton.

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