The developers constructing a 36 metre high mast in Castleblayney will not have to pay an almost €20,000 contribution fee to Monaghan County Council.
It's after An Bórd Pleanála overturned the council's decision. The application by On Tower Limited sought the removal of an existing 24 metre high mast to be replaced with a 36 metre high one on Mullyash Mountain. Permission was granted with a number of conditions attached including that On Tower pay a developer contribution of €18,170. The company raised justification for a waiver in the financial contribution with the council, however it was rejected. The council stated that there was not enough evidence that the development was part of a Government initiative and that the area has an existing level of coverage. On Tower Limited appealed this decision to An Bórd Pleanála. They argued that Monaghan Council's Development Contribution Scheme provides a 100% exemption for infrastructure such as masts where they are being developed under a Government initiative or where mobile or broadband operators show that the mast would provide coverage to those who otherwise would not have it. The report from the higher planning authority found that the area where this mast would be built is marked amber on the National Broadband Map, displaying a lower level of coverage. The mast, which would be part of Three Ireland's network, is set to provide 3G,4G. and 5G coverage to the area which can also be accessed by other operators. An Bórd Pleanála concluded that the development is intended to upgrade, enhance, and improve coverage in the area in line with the objectives of the National Broadband Plan.
The development is now exempt from the €18,000 fee contribution.
