Longford County Council turn down application for Granard mast

Longford County Council planners have refused planning permission for a telecommunication mast in Granard.

Towercom Limited, Usher House, Main Street, Dundrum made the application to the local authority to construct a telecommunications infrastructure comprised of; a 21-metre monopole (22.5 metre overall structure height to top of lightning finials) that would carry antennas and dishes.

The application included all associated equipment, together with a new ground level equipment cabinets, new fencing, temporary construction access and all associated site works.

The proposal also includes the removal of an existing telecommunications rooftop support structure and replacement of existing operators’ equipment.

The site of the proposed mast is at the Eir Exchange, Barrack Lane, Granard.

The council planners refused the application saying: “Having considered the proper planning and development of the County of Longford and having regard to the provisions of the Development Plan, it is hereby decided, in pursuance of the above Acts to refuse permission to the applicant in the terms of this application.”

In October of last year a similar planning application was made by Eircom Limited was turned down by An Bord Pleanála. Eircom appealed a refusal by Longford County Council to construct the 20 metre high lattice mast at Barrack Lane in Granard to the State planning oversight body.

The communications company has failed in their bid to overturn the refusal of planning permission for a telecom mast in a North Longford Town on three grounds.

On that occasion inspector for An Bord Pleanála turned down the plans saygng the proposed development does not comply with national guidelines as the applicant has “failed to demonstrate sufficiently the subject site was a last and only location in Granard to enhance the existing coverage in the area”.

The most recent application was made in June, with the planners reaching a decision this week.