Telecommunications mast plans ‘unacceptable’ in Newcastle area

PLANS for a 24-metre telecommunications mast at Landmark Architectural Salvage and Granite Products on Main Street in Newcastle have been refused permission as it would have an “unacceptable impact” on the area.

The planning application for a 24-metre telecommunications lattice structure together with antennas, dishes and headframe was lodged by Vantage Towers Ltd last August.

Provision of associated telecom-munications equipment enclosed by security fencing was also included in the application.

The proposal attracted a number of third-party submissions, where issues raised included the structure being “visually obtrusive” in the rural environs and Newcastle.

Other concerns included the potential for the structure to overshadow the adjacent school, and that it could devalue property in the vicinity.

On October 17, South Dublin County Council refused permission and it noted the height and scale of the proposed structure in the context of being in an Architectural Conservation Area.

The local authority noted that the structure would have been in close proximity to a number of Protected Structures.

In the context of “the low prevailing height of the surrounding area, it is considered that the proposed development would have an unacceptable impact on the character and setting of the Newcastle Architectural Conservation Area and would adversely affect the visual amenity of the area,” stated the council in its decision to refuse permission.

“The proposed development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area,” it concluded.