Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended granting permission (reaffirming the Planning Authority's decision) because the proposed telecommunications structure complies with the Wexford County Development Plan and national guidelines, meets a demonstrated technical need for improved coverage, and is not considered to have an undue adverse impact on the visual or residential amenities of the area.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development is consistent with both the National Planning Framework and the local development plan, which prioritize the delivery of high-speed broadband and mobile services in rural areas.
- The 30m mast is located within a 'Lowlands Landscape' of low-to-moderate sensitivity, and its setback position ensures it will not be unduly visible or injurious to the visual character of the area.
- Concerns regarding residential health, ecology, and archaeology can be sufficiently addressed through compliance with existing regulatory standards (ICNIRP) and the imposition of specific planning conditions, such as archaeological monitoring and a comprehensive landscaping scheme.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Wexford County Development Plan 2022-2028Volume 1, Chapter 9: Infrastructure StrategySection 9.4.2 (High-speed telecommunications strategy)Objective IS07 (Digital connectivity support)Section 9.10 (Telecommunications and ICT)Section 9.10.1 (Communication Masts and Antennae)Section 9.10.2 (High-quality broadband network support)Objectives TC01 to TC15Objective TC11 (Landscape character protection criteria)Volume 2: Development Management Manual, Section 8.1 (ICT assessment criteria)Volume 7: Landscape Character Units MapTable 7-1 (Lowlands Landscape description)Table 7-3 (Landscape Sensitivity)Wexford CDP 2013-2019 (as extended)
Decision Document Summary
Vantage Towers Ltd proposed a 30m high lattice telecommunications structure and compound at Ballyhast, Huntingtown, Co. Wexford. The site is set back on agricultural land accessed via an existing laneway. While Wexford County Council granted permission, a third-party appeal by a local resident raised issues including visual impact, health concerns (proximity to residence), and potential ecological damage to mature trees and bat habitats. The Inspector’s assessment found that the applicant provid...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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