Bid to retain mobile mast in Killeshandra area

Permission is being sought to retain a 30-metre high telecommunications structure in Killeshandra.

The mast, which has been in place for over two decades, is currently in breach of planning conditions set out in 2010 when permission was first granted to Telefonica O2.

Under the terms of that permission, the development at Mullaghmullan was due to be dismantled, and use of the site to cease after a five-year period. The original permission also allowed the council to review its position regarding the site in the interest of proper planning and sustainable development in the local area.

In 2016, Three Ireland Services (Hutchison) Ltd submitted an application to retain the mast, citing the terms of the 2010 Telefonica O2 permission. However, this application was deemed incomplete.

The mast itself dates back to 1999 when it was first developed by Esat Digifone Ltd. Since then, retention was granted to various operators including 02 Communications (2004) and later Telefonica O2.

The latest application for retention planning permission was submitted by Phoenix Tower Ireland III Limited, a subsidiary of global telecom infrastructure company, Phoenix Tower International (PTI). The application covers the 30-metre support structure and includes associated equipment such as antennas, dishes, communication cabins, and solar PV panels, all located within a chain-link fenced compound.

PTI III has also requested permission to install new antenna and dish equipment on the structure, along with additional ground equipment cabinets and other related site works.

Cavan County Council is expected to make a decision on the application by October 2.