A PICTURESQUE village green has been preserved after a telecommunications giant listened to residents and agreed to install underground cables. BT had been intending to install two new telegraph poles on Winwick village green. However, after facing fierc

A PICTURESQUE village green has been preserved after a telecommunications giant listened to residents and agreed to install underground cables.

BT had been intending to install two new telegraph poles on Winwick village green.

However, after facing fierce opposition from residents, the intervention of MP for North West Cambridgeshire, Shailesh Vara, and an article in The Hunts Post, BT has changed its plans.

After a visit to the site, the company has decided to install the cables underground, with work set to take place this month.

Maggi Stewart, who led a campaign against the poles, said BT's change of heart was "wonderful news".

"BT could have considerably damaged the look of the green with additional poles but their revised scheme will not only protect but actually enhance the green.

"I appreciate the time and consideration they have given to our concerns and the new outcome and I am grateful to Mr Vara for his support and intervention."

She added: "It is encouraging that has BT listened to our concerns and understood the environmental sensitivities of the site. It's nice to have a story with a happy ending."

Mr Vara, who wrote to BT chairman, Sir Michael Rake, said: "It is often the case that big companies press ahead with plans regardless of opposition. However, in this instance BT has done the right thing. I am delighted they have listened.