24168
for a 23-metre-high portion of an existing unauthorised monopole structure (removing the top 7 metres). Permission is also sought to extend the remaining structure with a 4-metres headframe (resultant total height of monopole with headframe to be 27 metres). The amended structure to carry antennae, communication dishes and ancillary equipment ( including lightning finial) within an existing palisade fenced compound along with associated ground-mounted equipment and associated groundworks, to be shared with multiple operators
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed retention and extension of the telecommunications monopole is considered visually obtrusive and injurious to the character and setting of the Leixlip Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) and the adjacent protected structure, Ivy House, contravening several local planning policies.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development would have an overbearing impact and be visually injurious to the Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) of Leixlip and the setting of the adjacent protected structure, Ivy House.
- The proposal fails to minimize or mitigate adverse impacts on the built and natural environment, specifically regarding its location within an area of archaeological potential and proximity to residential amenities.
- The retention and extension of the structure would materially contravene specific objectives of the Kildare County Development Plan 2023-2029 and the Leixlip Local Area Plan 2020-2026 concerning telecommunications infrastructure and heritage preservation.