Core Planning Reasoning
The development is recommended for a grant of permission as it is located within an existing telecommunications compound, is consistent with the 'Major Town Centre' zoning objective, provides essential infrastructure upgrades, and would not significantly injure the visual or residential amenities of the area or impact public health.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The replacement of the existing 12m mast with a 21.5m tower is technically justified to provide improved coverage and capacity in the Balbriggan area.
- The visual impact is deemed acceptable in an urban town centre context, as the tower is located within a established utilities compound and features a slimmer design than the existing structure.
- Concerns regarding human health and emissions were dismissed on the basis that the development must comply with international standards (ICNIRP) and national guidelines regulated by ComReg.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Zoning Objective MC (Major Town Centre)Objective IUO53 - High-quality DesignPolicy IUP36 - Provision of TelecommunicationsObjective IUO48 - High-quality ICT NetworkObjective IUO52 - Licences for Overground InfrastructureObjective DMSO17 - Location of New Utility StructuresObjective DMSO18 - High Quality Design of New Utility StructuresObjective DMSO222 - Co-Location of AntennaeObjective DMSO223 - Location of Telecommunications Based ServicesObjective DMSO224 - Applications for Telecommunications StructuresObjective DMSO225 - Open Access ConnectivityObjective DMSO226 - Removal of Masts and Antennae
Decision Document Summary
This report assesses a proposal by Eir (Eircom Limited) to replace an existing 12m mast with a 21.5m lattice tower at their exchange on Drogheda Street, Balbriggan. The site is located in the town centre, zoned 'MC' where such structures are permitted in principle. A third-party appeal from Cora McDonagh cited concerns over health risks to a nearby school and residents, visual impact, and the availability of alternative sites. The Inspector concluded that the site is highly suitable for co-locat...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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