Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would result in a significant adverse visual impact on a highly sensitive landscape designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and would be contrary to the development standards for telecommunications structures set out in the County Development Plan.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The 21m monopole structure would have an undue negative visual impact on the immediate and surrounding landscape within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at the foot of the Little Sugarloaf.
- The proposal is contrary to Objective NH50 and the development standards in Appendix 1 of the Wicklow County Development Plan 2016-2022, particularly as the Visual Impact Statement failed to consider key protected views and prospects.
- Granting permission would set an undesirable precedent for similar telecommunications developments in highly scenic, elevated rural areas, thereby detracting from the visual amenity and character of the region.
Cited Policies (CDP)
NH50Objective T1Objective T2Objective T3Appendix 1NH52View 39Prospect 11Prospect 12
Decision Document Summary
Cignal Infrastructure Ltd proposed the construction of a 21m high monopole telecommunications structure, including antennas, dishes, and a 2.4m palisade fence compound at Kilmacanogue North, Co. Wicklow. The site is situated in a prominent, elevated rural setting at the base of the Little Sugarloaf, within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Wicklow County Council refused the application because the structure's scale and location would cause significant visual injury to the l...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.