Tallest structure on Offaly skyline set to be demolished today

THE tallest man-made landmark on the Offaly landscape is set to be removed today.

The former RTE medium wave broadcasting mast at Ballycommon, which rises to a height of 296 metres (971 feet) was erected in about 1975 but has not been in use since 2008.

Today is the scheduled date for dismantling the structure but an RTE statement on Monday said the work is weather dependent.

RTE said it will record the dismantling process and then distribute the video footage.

A spokesperson told the Tullamore Tribune on Monday afternoon: “As RTÉ prepares to dismantle the mast, in the interests of safety, only those authorised to access the site will be allowed to do so.

“The works will involve heavy lifting equipment and substantial material removal. There are narrow roads and a canal close to the site, and for safety and information purposes, RTÉ has informed the appropriate authorities of planned works.

“A detailed process is in place for the safe dismantling of the mast, which also requires stable weather conditions due to the height of the structure. Preparation works are ongoing, but no fixed time has been confirmed for commencing the dismantling process as yet.”

The mast, which is the second highest antenna on the island of Ireland, replaced a previous one in Athlone and broadcast radio on medium wave 567khz AM.

The medium wave is no longer used for broadcast by RTE and it ceased on March 24, 2008.

It appears the site at Ballycommon, which is owned by RTE, will continue to be a location for communication services because planning permission was granted for a 48-metre high broadband tower there in 2020.

Waterways Ireland issued a notice to users of the Grand Canal advising of a temporary closure from Campbell's Bridge, Ballycommon, lock 21, to lock 22, from 10.30am to 1pm, while the demolition is in progress on Tuesday, July 25.

Both the towpath and the canal itself are to be closed, the Waterways notice said.