AN APPEAL against a decision to refuse planning permission for a radio mast in Eryri has been dismissed.

EE Ltd had a planning application rejected in January by the Eryri National Park Planning Authority to build a 35-metre-high mast in Coed Bryn Engan.

This was to be part of the Shared Rural Network scheme, which aims to increase mobile connectivity in rural parts of the UK.

The decision was appealed, but that has now been turned down by planning inspector, Helen Smith.

Initially, the planning authority rejected the application because it considered the proposed size of the mast to be “unduly prominent”, and would “adversely harm” the area’s aesthetic.

Giving her reasons on November 21, Ms Smith was also of the view that the development would harm the landscape’s visual appeal.

She said: “As evidenced by the appellant's photorealistic representations from key viewpoints, and from my own observations, the tower, antennas and dishes would rise well above the height of the trees within the woodland and would be clearly visible, particularly from the A4086.

“Owing to its height and siting, it would break the skyline when viewed from the base of the valley from the A4086 in both directions. 

“Whilst some views of the mast would be against the backdrop of the trees and the rising rugged hillside to the south, these would be close views and the mast would still be noticeable.

“Despite its green colour and lattice structure, owing to its siting near a clearing in the woods, much of the mast would be visible from views across the lake from the A4086.

“I note the reasons why the mast is required to be so high and a lattice type design; nevertheless, its overtly industrial and modern appearance would be seriously at odds with and detract from the highly scenic rural landscape.”

Ms Smith, who undertook a site visit on October 1, also noted that the proposal would result in the loss of a small area of coniferous trees, mosses, lichens, ferns, and boulders.

While she recognized that the proposal would enhance connectivity for emergency services, businesses and residents, she found that this does not outweigh “harm to the special qualities” of Eryri.