A decision to grant permission for a telecommunications mast in North Tipp has been upheld by An Bord Pleanala.
The state planning appeals board was asked to adjudicate on the issue by a local school after Eircom Ltd was given the green light for the structure in Cloughjordan.
The Board of Management of St Michael’s National School in Cloughjordan had objected to the plans for the Eir Exchange compound on Main Street – following Tipperary County Council’s granting of permission they took their case to An Bord Pleanala.
While acknowledging the need for improved coverage in the area they are concerned that the 15 metre shrouded pole would be within 3 metres of the walkway to the school where 137 pupils, 15 staff and numerous parents or guardians walk every day.
It would also be 7 metres away from the gable-end of the school building, and more than twice the height of the school, which they felt would be an eye sore and danger as well as casting a constant shadow on the school.
The visual impact on local houses was also highlighted.
An inspector from An Bord Pleanala recommended that planning be granted subject to a number of revised conditions which was accepted by the Board.
