Approval for controversial mast overlooking Mayo lake amenity

An Bord Pleanála, the planning appeals board, has given the go-ahead to Eircom Limited to erect a 15-metre communications mast on a site overlooking Lough Lannagh, Castlebar.

The board overturned the decision by Mayo County Council to reject the proposed development at the popular lakeside amenity.

There had been strong objections locally to the project on the elevated site.

However the planning appeals board did not share the view that it will adversely impact on the scenic location.

Six planning conditions have been attached to the permission, including a requirement in respect of a landscaping scheme and the retention of trees and hedgerows.