Core Refusal Reason
The applicant failed to provide a robust justification for the site selection, specifically regarding the feasibility of co-location on existing structures, and did not adequately address the potential adverse visual impacts on the landscape and residential amenity.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The assessment of alternative locations was deemed substandard, as the applicant failed to demonstrate that co-location on existing telecommunications infrastructure or more suitable alternative sites was not feasible.
- Significant concerns remain regarding the visual impact of the 36m lattice structure on the surrounding landscape and nearby residential dwellings, necessitating a comprehensive Visual Impact Assessment with specific viewpoints.
- The planning submission contained numerous inaccuracies regarding the current County Development Plan policies and lacked essential technical details, including contiguous elevations and a revised site layout plan showing natural ground levels and setbacks.
Cited Policies (CDP)
ENTP-40ENTP-41ENTP-42ENTP-43ENTP-44DMS-111
Decision Document Summary
Hibernian Cellular Networks Ltd. sought permission to erect a 36m high lattice telecommunications support structure at Moyclare, Belmont, Co. Offaly, on a site adjacent to an existing water tower. Although the location is classified as having low landscape sensitivity, the Planning Authority identified significant deficiencies in the application, particularly the lack of a reasoned justification for the site selection over co-location options. Furthermore, the proposal was found to be potentiall...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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