Planning bid for 33-metre telecom mast in Kilcormac

A planning application has been lodged with Offaly County Council for the construction of a 33-metre telecom mast in Kilcormac.

The application, submitted by Emerald Tower Ltd to provide coverage for Eir mobile, was lodged earlier this month with a decision due on May 27.

The proposed site for the development is at Ballybracken (or Ridgemount) in Kilcormac - approximately 1.1km east of Kilcormac town centre and immediately west of the Offaly GAA Centre of Excellence.

In its application, Emerald Tower Ltd said the development works are to 'provide for high-speed wireless data and broadband services' in the area.

The application further noted that "Eir wishes to provide wireless high-speed data and broadband services from this proposal, due to the growth in customer demand locally."

The proposed development would consist of the installation of a 33-metre multi-user lattice telecommunications support structure carrying antennas, dishes, remote radio units, associated equipment, together with ground-based equipment cabinets, palisade fencing, gate, gantry poles, cable ladders, support poles, mini pillar, concrete foundation, concrete plinths, access track and all associated site development works.

The planning application said that the site, following the proposed installation, "will be capable of accommodating new, more advanced technologies for operators within the surrounding area."

The overall height of the proposed lattice structure, at 33m, is "the absolute minimum available to support additional operators," the company said in its application.

The applicant also said that residential dwellings in the vicinity are "well protected from the visual impact of the structure with the presence of an existing treeline west, south and east of the site."