Core Refusal Reason
The Planning Authority initially refused permission due to concerns regarding the proliferation of telecommunications structures on the building and potential negative visual impacts; however, the Inspector recommended a grant of permission, concluding that the shrouded design and 'Local Centre' zoning make the development acceptable and consistent with national policy on co-location.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed telecommunications structures are located on lands zoned 'Local Centre' where such infrastructure is permitted in principle and supports national digital connectivity goals.
- The applicant provided sufficient technical justification for the site selection and demonstrated that clustering equipment on a single rooftop (co-location) prevents a proliferation of masts elsewhere in the residential area.
- The use of shrouded antennas with finishes matching the existing building parapet ensures the visual impact is moderate and does not significantly harm the character or amenities of the surrounding residential environment.
Cited Policies (CDP)
LC – Local Centre ZoningLocal Objective 111Objective IT07Objective IT08Objective DMS 143Policy IUP36Objective IUO53Objective IUO54Objective DMSO17Objective DMSO18Objective DMSO222Objective DMSO223Objective DMSO224
Decision Document Summary
This report pertains to a first-party appeal by Eircom Limited following Fingal County Council's refusal of permission for telecommunications infrastructure at Bayside Shopping Centre, Sutton. The proposed development involves three 2.9m high shrouded antennas (reaching a total height of 22.24m above ground), an equipment cabinet, and a microwave dish on the rooftop of a four-storey mixed-use building. The site is located within a established residential area but is specifically zoned 'Local Cen...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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