Plans to erect a telecommunications mast at Oxford University Sports Centre in Iffley Road are to go ahead despite strong opposition.

Residents and Magdalen College School have attacked Oxford City Council for failing to carry out a proper consultation about the proposal, which will see three mounted antennae and dishes put on the grandstand of the historic sports ground.

Critics fear there are worrying health implications, with Christ Church and Corpus Christi College halls of residence in Iffley Road all in the 'affected zone', and the junior section of the SS Mary and St John school also nearby.

Craig Simmons, Green Party city councillor for St Mary's ward, said residents were angry that the masts would ruin views of the city and Boars Hill.

He said: "It is regrettable that this development should be allowed to take place on the very edge of a conservation area." He said the application had been rated red, the highest classification, under the industry's consultation guidelines.

Andrew Halls, the Master of Magdalen College School, said: "The masts could have a negative impact on the children here. The information I have received suggests the consultation that occurred before the decision was made was highly questionable. It does feel as if it were a done deal."

Michael Crofton-Briggs, head of Oxford city council's planning department, said: "Residents and councillors were notified about the development and there were not four councillors willing to support it being called into the area committee.

"Orange has submitted to the council documents showing that the masts meet the Government's minimum health guidelines."