Kelly concerned about grant of planning permission for mast in Cloughjordan

“THE decision by an Bord Pleanala to grant planning permission to Eir for a mast in the Eir exchange beside St Michael’s Primary School in Cloughjordan is very concerning,” Deputy Alan Kelly said in a statement this week.

“This application was previously refused because of its proximity to local houses but for some reason this time was allowed go ahead,” he said.

“The Board of Management of St Michael’s strongly objected to the mast application given its proximity to the school and the availability of other locations in the area.

“They are concerned that the 15 metre shrouded pole would be only 3 metres away from the walkway into the school where 137 pupils, 15 staff, parents and guardians walk every weekday. It would also be 7 metres away from the gable-end of the school building, and more than twice the height of the school, which they felt would create a shadow over the school as well as possibly causing a danger to all patrons. The impact on the local houses for which the precious application was refused was also emphasised,” the Deputy said.

“I met last week with the parents council and members of the staff and Board of Management and offered them my full support. Unfortunately there is no appeal mechanism to an Bord Pleanala on this issue so I have appraised tbr Parents Council and Board of Management of the School on their options. I’m helping them to go through all of these. I’ll also be raising it with the Minister for Education who may wish to intervene as well,” said Deputy Kelly.