Core Refusal Reason
While the Planning Authority initially refused permission due to visual dominance in a sensitive coastal landscape, the Inspector recommended a grant of permission, concluding that the proposed infrastructure, as amended by a revised design using GRP shrouds, constitutes a low-impact development that addresses a proven technical need for 4G and 5G coverage without significantly impacting visual or residential amenities.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant has provided sufficient technical justification for the proposed installation to address 4G/5G coverage deficits and has demonstrated that no viable co-location opportunities exist in the immediate area.
- The revised design proposal to include GRP shrouds ensures the antennas will be concealed and painted to match the building facade, allowing the equipment to assimilate into the urban landscape and avoiding significant negative visual impacts.
- The development is consistent with the 'Town and District Centre' zoning and complies with both national guidelines and the objectives of the Fingal Development Plan 2023-2029 regarding the provision of essential digital connectivity infrastructure.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Zoning: TC - Town and District CentreObjective GINHO58Objective GINHO59Objective GINHO60Policy IUP36Objective IUO48Objective IUO53Objective IUO54Objective DMSO18Objective DMSO222Objective DMSO223Objective DMSO224Objective DMSO227Objective DMSO228
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks permission for the installation of 6 antennas and 2 transmission dishes on 3.3m high poles at the roof level of the Lidl Store in Portmarnock, along with ground-level cabinets. Fingal County Council originally refused permission on the grounds that the structures would be unduly dominant in a sensitive coastal landscape. However, the Inspector notes that the site is within an established urban streetscape zoned for town center use. During the appeal, the applicant submitted...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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