21804

THE REPLACEMENT OF AN EXISTING TELECOMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT STRUCTURE (OVERALL HEIGHT OF 14.5 METRES), WITH A PROPOSED NEW LATTICE TOWER (OVERALL HEIGHT OF 25.5 METRES) CARRYING TELECOMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT TRANSFERRED FROM THE EXISTING STRUCTURE AND THE ADDITION OF NEW TELECOMMUNICATIONS ANTENNAS, DISHES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT, TOGETHER WITH NEW GROUND LEVEL EQUIPMENT CABINETS

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The applicant failed to provide adequate technical justification for a new 25.5m structure in close proximity to an existing 24.5m mast and did not sufficiently demonstrate that the proposal would not adversely impact the visual amenities of the rural landscape.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposal represents an unnecessary proliferation of telecommunications infrastructure, as the applicant failed to provide a reasoned justification for a new mast instead of co-locating on an existing 24.5m structure located only 150m away.
  • The Planning Authority determined that the 25.5m lattice tower poses a significant potential for adverse visual impact on the rural amenities of the area, requiring a comprehensive Visual Impact Assessment that was absent from the initial application.
  • There is a lack of clarity regarding the planning history of the subject site, specifically concerning the legal authorization and original grant of permission for the existing 14.5m mast intended for replacement.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Section 5.8.2ENTP-40ENTP-41ENTP-42ENTP-43ENTP-44DMS-111Chapter 13

Decision Document Summary

Towercom Limited sought permission to replace an existing 14.5m telecommunications structure with a 25.5m lattice tower at the Eir Exchange in Ballintemple, Walsh Island, Co. Offaly. The site is located in a rural townland north of Walsh Island Village. The Planning Authority raised significant concerns regarding the proliferation of masts in the vicinity, specifically citing a 24.5m mast located just 150m to the north-east. The application was effectively refused/deferred because the applicant ...
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