Restaurant owner fights telecom boxes blocking her view, hurting business. Petition seeks removal and protection for businesses.
She complained to Southwark Council for years, but the council told her the boxes stay. Dulwich MP Helen Hayes brought a petition to Parliament asking for the boxes’ removal.
Hayes said Umana Yana is a great restaurant, adding that the boxes hurt the business. The petition wants rules to protect small businesses and asks for compensation from telecom companies.
Over 1,700 locals signed the petition. Debbie says the stress hurt her health, and she had a heart attack in 2020. Her revenue fell drastically after the boxes arrived.
She says her business relied on passing customers, but the boxes now block the view. Debbie tried many ways to remove them, while Southwark Council says it tried to help.
The council claims rules let telecom companies install boxes without needing planning permission. A council officer called it the “worst case,” stating the boxes were lawfully installed.
Rapper Central Cee donated £15,000 to Debbie. She appreciates the support from locals, and wants to keep cooking authentic Guyanese food. The government has two months to review the petition.
Councilor Helen Dennis said they tried to help, stating telecom companies don’t need permission, and that she wants councils to have more power. The council explored mediation and advertising as alternative solutions.
The council also proposed an Article 4 motion requiring telecom firms to seek permission here. This would affect boxes, masts, or replacements on this site.