Communications giant Vodafone, wants to build a 15 metre mast at Cromford Garden Centre, close to Cromford Canal and within the Derwent Valley Mills world heritage site.

Adrian Farmer, co-ordinator of the world heritage site, said: "It is possible it could have an impact on the setting of the world heritage site. Certainly we will look at it very closely and are likely to comment. The setting of the world heritage site is very important and Cromford Canal is an important part of that setting."

District councillor Peter Hume, who represents the Masson ward, said he would be able to see the mast from his kitchen window.

He added: "It is going to be prominent from the canal towpath.

"I would be interested to get the views of residents who use Vodafone, about the coverage in this area and if this is needed."

Mike Kelley, chairman of Friends of Cromford Canal, which aims to restore the historic waterway, said he had some concerns.

He added: "We would be concerned if it was going to affect with the canal. We don't want anything interfering with the pleasantness of the Derwent Valley."

Vodafone spokesman Rob Matthews said the mast was needed to improve mobile coverage in the area and the location would not be visually intrusive.

He added: "We recognise that some communities are concerned regarding the deployment of radio base stations. All of our base stations are designed, built and operated in accordance with stringent international guidelines laid down by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection.

"The adoption of these guidelines has the formal backing of independent bodies such as the World Health Organisation."