The planning process has formally started for the erection of a controversial 30metre telecoms mast in Drumonaghan Wood in Ramelton.
But some local residents are fearful about the proposals due to a ‘lack of transparency’ on the impact the mast may have on the locality.
Cignal Infrastructure Ltd formally lodged the planning application with Donegal County Council on Friday to seek permission to erect a new 30m multi-user telecommunications support structure. The mast would be located within a security compound in the woods and surrounded by a 2.4m high palisade fence.
It comes as independent company Cignal last year revealed that they are investing €25M into building telecoms infrastructure in Ireland to improve broadband and mobile coverage blackspots in rural areas.
Cllr Ian McGarvey attempted to bring an emergency motion to the Letterkenny-Milford District meeting yesterday to discuss the proposed mast in Ramelton.
However, he was told that the motion could not be discussed.
“The motion is in relation to a current planning application that is before the council,” said Liam Ward, Director of Services.
“Any discussion could be determined prejudicial to the consideration of the planning application and should not happen.”
An online petition is also underway calling on the council to oppose the development.
The public has five weeks to make written submissions on the application to the planning authority.
