Core Refusal Reason
While the Planning Authority initially refused permission due to concerns over visual impact on residential amenities and zoning, the Inspector recommends a grant of permission, concluding that the 5m extension to the existing structure is a necessary utility within an established compound that facilitates essential co-location without significant adverse impact.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development is located within an established ESB substation compound, which is considered an appropriate and sustainable location for essential utility infrastructure serving the wider residential area.
- The 5m extension is technically required to overcome signal interference from tree growth and to facilitate the decoupling of operators (Eir and Three), supporting national policy for improved telecommunications.
- The visual impact on neighboring properties, including Mulberry Court and Ros na Ri, is considered acceptable within an urban context and is adequately mitigated by the site's existing screening and utility-based character.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Zoning RS - ResidentialObjective IT05Objective IT06Objective IT07Objective IT08Objective DMS143Objective DMS144Objective DMS145
Decision Document Summary
This Inspector's Report evaluates a first-party appeal regarding the proposed 5-meter height extension of an existing 14.5m telecommunications structure (to a total of 19.5m) at the ESB Castleknock 38kV Substation. Fingal County Council originally refused permission, citing potential injury to the visual amenities of the surrounding 'RS - Residential' zoned land. The Inspector’s assessment acknowledges the confusion in the submitted drawings regarding existing heights but confirms the 19.5m fina...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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