A controversial application to erect a telecommunications tower in south-east Clare has been refused.
Plans for the development on the outskirts of Clonlara were put forward in June of this year – since which time 22 submissions opposing the tower’s construction have been lodged with Clare County Council.
Charter House Infrastructure Consultants submitted the application for a development consisting of 30-metre high telecommunications lattice tower with antennas, dishers and associated equipment at Coollisteige in Clonlara on June 17th on behalf of its client Icon Tower.
The application states that the development, which would have been located roughly 450 metres southeast of Clonlara village centre in the grounds of Clonlara Wholesale Distributors, would have benefitted the nearby residences by enhancing 4G and 5G coverage.
Subsequent to the application however, 22 submissions have been made expressing opposition to the tower – the majority of which centre on the mast’s height, the existence of similar structures in the region and health concerns.
Among those who’ve made a submission are Meelick Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe, Clonlara Independent Councillor Michael Begley and Ardnacrusha Fianna Fáil Councillor Rachel Hartigan – the latter of whom says there are “several telecommunications towers of sufficient height in the general locality”.
A submission from McElligott Consulting states the development would have a “detrimental effect on the current commercial zoning of the adjoining lands” – pointing out that land in the area has been earmarked for village amenities such as a car park and a playground.
Another submission from a resident cites health concerns related to 5G and says the development would “downgrade and devalue existing property in the area”.
Clare County Council made the decision to refuse the application on August 7th – four days ahead of the decision due date
