Longford mast application upheld by An Bord Pleanála

A decision by Longford County Council planners to refuse planning permission for a telecommunication mast in Granard has been upheld by An Bord Pleanála.

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

That application, refused by the local authority, included associated equipment, together with new ground level equipment cabinets, new fencing, temporary construction access and all associated site works.

The refused proposal included the removal of an existing telecommunications rooftop support structure and replacement of existing operators’ equipment. The site of the existing 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 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 failed in their bid to overturn the refusal of planning permission for a telecom mast in a North Longford Town on three grounds.

Towercom Limited, one of Ireland's longest established independent wireless infrastructure providers, appealed the local authority decision to An Bord Pleanála. The State planning authority upheld the decision of Longford County Council.