PLANS to construct an 18m communications tower close to George’s Head in Kilkee have been lodged with Clare County Council.
A planning application was issued to the local authority by Galway planning consultants Entrust on behalf of Icon Tower Ireland.
In the application for the proposed development, the communications tower firm are seeking planning permission for “the installation of an 18m monopole telecommunications support structure carrying antennas, dishes, remote radio units (RRUs), aircraft warning light, lightning finials, fibre chamber, associated equipment, together with ground-based equipment cabinets, 2.4m palisade fencing, 1.0m wide access gate, stone-surfaced compound, and all associated site development works to provide for high-speed wireless data and broadband services”.
The site of the proposed development is located at Corbally, Kilkee just off the N67 national route and close to the scenic Corbally Cliffs and Byrne’s Cove areas of the west coast. A Mr Declan Griffin of Doonbeg has given his consent as landowner to the proposed development.
A technical justification report included in the planning files which states that the development is “required to address existing deficiencies in mobile coverage within Kilkee and the surrounding area, including along the N67 road where service levels are currently poor and inconsistent”.
“The receiving environment is characterised by undulating terrain and dense mature vegetation, which significantly restrict radio signal propagation. As a result, a structure height of approximately 18 metres represents the minimum technically feasible solution to achieve the necessary clearance above local obstructions and deliver effective signal coverage”, it continues.
As part of the statement’s conclusion, it notes that “The proposed development is necessary to ensure the provision of consistent and high-quality 2G, 4G, and 5G services for residential, commercial, and general connectivity within the area”. A photomontage report is also included in the planning files which showcases lines of sight from the proposed development’s location, highlighting the minimal impact the tower is predicted to have on the surrounding area.
A decision on whether or not to grant planning permission for the development will be made by Clare County Council by the 23rd of August. Submissions and objections can be issued to the local authority until August 2nd.
