Partry objections

Objections lodged by local group to proposed mast in Partry

Claire Egan

PARTRY Anti-Mast Action Group have lodged a formal objection with Mayo County Council to a proposed telecommunications mast for the south Mayo village.
The opposition group have sent a letter to the local authority citing the visual impact of such a development on the area, the effect on archaeological sites and health and safety issues as the primary basis for their objection.
A Galway-based company, Elevation Towers Limited, recently lodged an application for the erection of a 30-metre telecommunications support structure with antennae, link dishes and associated equipment containers, security and access track at Carrowmoney, Partry.
“We have received support from fishing and community groups within the area and we have included a number of reasons under each section outlining our objections. The mast itself is proposed for an elevated site with clear views of the surrounding countryside, there is no tree or shrub cover to minimise the impact of the mast on the countryside and it is to be situated in an area of special conservation,” said Vincent Hennelly, PRO of the Partry Anti-Mast Group.
The group have also disputed the claims that the proposed tower will offer broadband connectivity to local industries and the community, stating: “There is no analysis or rationale given with respect to population density and capacity requirements to justify the economic viability of this venture for the stated purpose.”
A decision on the proposed development is due on August 6, 2007 but it is anticipated that a demand for further information will be issued by Mayo County Council in respect of the application.