18-metre high mast near Kerry Airport runway granted permission by An Bord Pleanála

Vantage Towers Limited initially secured planning by Kerry County Council in 2023 subject to three conditions. This was later appealed by Kerry Airport over concerns around possible impacts on the airport.

The mast is to be located south of the village of Currow, close to the eastern approach of the runway at Farranfore Airport.

The appellant stated the structure would ‘penetrate the obstacle limitation surface’, in particular the inner horizontal surface, and ‘no assessment has been undertaken’ to assess the impact of the development on the airport’s future operations and expansion.

One local resident objected on the basis the mast would be located just 10 metres from her home, and would devalue the property.

An Bord Pleanála decided to grant permission subject to eight conditions. It felt the structure was in accordance with the provision of national mobile communications policy.

It also stated that, subject to said conditions, the structure would not injure visual amenities of the area including residential amenities. The mast is to be fitted with a red light with a minimum output of 32 candelas.

Kerry Airport and the Irish Aviation Authority is to receive 30 days’ notice prior to the commencement of works to erect the mast.