2151117

REMOVAL OF 2NO. EXISTING 10M WOODEN POLE STRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT (13M OVERALL HEIGHT) AND INSTALLATION OF A REPLACEMENT 21M MONOPOLE STRUCTURE (22.5M OVERALL HEIGHT) ALONG WITH THE INSTALLATION OF ANTENNAE, DISHES, EQUIPMENT CABINETS, CABLE LADDERS, FENCING AND ANCILLARY DEVELOPMENT THERETO FOR ENHANCED WIRELESS DATA AND BROADBAND SERVICES

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The Inspector recommended granting permission (reversing the Planning Authority's refusal) on the basis that the revised 18m structure is essential for telecommunications infrastructure, is consistent with the Donegal County Development Plan, and does not significantly impact visual or residential amenities.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposed development is consistent with national, regional, and local planning policies aimed at improving telecommunications infrastructure in rural areas, and a technical justification for the site selection has been established.
  • While the original 21m structure was considered excessive, the revised 18m high monopole design is acceptable as it minimizes visual impact by utilizing an established utility site and benefiting from local screening and topography.
  • The development will not result in unacceptable overbearing impacts on nearby residential properties or create a significant traffic hazard, as traffic generation will be limited to infrequent maintenance visits.

Cited Policies (CDP)

TC-P-3TC-O-1TC-P-1TC-P-4TC-P-5TC-P-6Policy CS-P-4Policy NH-P-7Policy NH-P-13

Decision Document Summary

The application seeks permission for the removal of two 10m wooden poles and the installation of a new monopole (originally 21m, reduced to 18m on appeal) to support 3G, 4G, and 5G services for Vodafone and Eir at an existing 'Eir' exchange site in Quigley's Point, Co. Donegal. The Planning Authority initially refused permission citing concerns over visual obtrusion in a residential area and traffic hazards. The Inspector's assessment found that the area suffers from documented network deficienc...
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