Belcarra mast plan appealed to An Bord Pleanála

PLANS by Eircom to erect an 18-metre telecommunications structure at Cuillare in Belcarra have been appealed to An Bord Pleanála.

There has been local opposition to the proposal, with a number of submissions made to Mayo County Council at the planning stage.

The council granted permission to the company, who say the structure will provide vital communication services to the surrounding area.

It would be offered to all licenced network operators as a point of co-location, reducing the need for other masts in the area.

Concerns raised locally included the mast's close proximity to residential properties, potential health risks, lack of consultation, it being visually obtrusive, and its impact on property values.

An appeal has now been lodged against the council's decision, with a decision due to issue from An Bord Pleanála early in January.