Telecoms mast planned on the edge of Laois town

Planning approval is sought to build a telecommunications mast on the outskirts of Mountmellick in Laois.

Vantage Towers Ltd is seeking permission from Laois County Council for a 30 metre lattice mast, in Sronagh, in the Derryguile area.

It is aimed to give better 4g and 5g coverage on local roads and the nearby N80 Portlaoise road.

Their application asks to build "a 30m lattice telecommunications support structure together with associated antennas, dishes and with equipment cabinets at ground level all enclosed by security fencing using an existing access track."

It is supported by Vodaphone.

"In line with Laois County Council Telecommunications guidelines and strategies, Vodafone prefer to site share on structures subject to them providing sufficient antenna height and rigidity for effective radio signal propagation, thereby eliminating the
need for an independent site. This installation of telecommunications equipment on this proposed structure will enhance connectivity, allowing residents and businesses to access reliable mobile services, which is essential for communication, emergency services, and economic activities."

Charterhouse Infrastructure Consultants are making the application on behalf of Vantage. They say why it is needed.

"Vantage Towers is one of Europe’s leading tower companies, created by the Vodafone Group in 2020. As an independent Company today, Vantage owns, operates, and manages 82,000 towers across 10 countries. It owns 1,300 masts in Ireland and combines the scale, stability, and quality of a leading tower network to provide infrastructure and technologies for Vodafone and other communications operators.

Read also: New application for Laois roadside mast after An Bord Pleanála refusal

"Today, mobile phones are only one component of a digital world inhabited by a wide range of communications services, including wearable technology and IoT. 

"Operator requirements direct new infrastructure investment, typically in areas with little or no infrastructure or where the current infrastructure is inadequate. Specifically, this application immediately addresses Vodafone’s requirement to significantly improve services in the target catchment area south of Mountmellick. The proposed structure will improve 4G and 5G coverage
over the local road network, particularly this section of the N80 and surrounding area."

A planning decision is due by September 10.