Laois village to get high-speed internet with proposed new mast on GAA grounds

A planning application has been lodged with Laois County Council for a 30 metre high telecommunications structure at a Laois GAA club grounds which is intended to provide high-speed internet for the local area. 

APW UK WIP Limited, trading as Icon Tower, have applied for planning permission to install the 30 metre high structure at Trumera GAA Club in Trumera, Mountrath, County Laois. 

Included in the application is the installation of the 30 metre high lattice telecommunications support structure accommodating antennas, dishes, remote radio units, lightning finial and all associated equipment.

This includes ground-based equipment cabinets within a compound enclosed by a 2.4 metre high palisade fencing with a 1 metre wide access gate, a 3 metre wide access gate within the existing fence, construction of a new access track connecting compound to the existing access track, concrete foundation and all associated site development works.

According to the planning documents submitted alongside the application, the proposed development will provide high speed wireless data and broadband services for Vodafone Ireland to deploy a modern and efficient communications network infrastructure with a view to enhance the lives of the local community.

The installation is required for 2G voice, 4G and 5G data service provision in the area.

The application states that the current demand for such internet services has put additional pressures on the network, meaning existing base stations must undergo significant upgrades to meet the demand. 

This site at Trumera GAA Club is proposed to provide upgraded mobile voice and data coverage to the Trumera area, the M7, the nearby railway line, as well as to residents and businesses in the vicinity.

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Vodafone said that the proposed development is "essential to enhancing telecommunications infrastructure within the area, providing improved coverage and connectivity for residents and businesses." 

The network provider added: "As demand for high-speed internet and reliable mobile services continues to grow, this development will enable operators to improve the quality and resilience of service provision."

Laois County Council are due to make their decision on the planning application by Wednesday, March 5.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme