Overview
Three Ireland, the country’s largest mobile network provider, engaged Entrust Services to secure planning permission for rooftop telecommunications equipment in The Liberties, Dublin. The project aimed to improve data coverage in an area experiencing high demand, while respecting the architectural character of this sensitive, conservation-designated area.
Objective
The goal was to enhance Three Ireland’s network reliability and capacity in Dublin 8 by upgrading an existing rooftop site, without compromising visual amenity or triggering planning refusals typical in Architectural Conservation Areas.
Challenges
- Sensitive Location: The rooftop lies within an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA), requiring careful design to minimise visual intrusion.
- Strict Planning Controls: Ensuring compliance with both national telecoms guidelines and Dublin City Development Plan 2022–2028.
- Public Perception: Ongoing concerns around visual clutter and equipment proliferation required a design-conscious approach.
Solutions
Entrust Services developed a holistic planning strategy that included:
● Custom equipment design using slimline profiles and sky-tone shrouding to blend with the skyline.
● In-house visual impact assessment, including photomontages, demonstrating minimal visibility.
● A detailed planning statement outlining policy compliance and the technical need for network upgrades.
● Alignment with principles of co-location and minimal infrastructural footprint.
Results
Planning permission was successfully granted by Dublin City Council, enabling Three Ireland to deliver enhanced mobile and broadband services to the Dublin 8 area. The rooftop remains visually unobtrusive, ensuring protection of The Liberties’ heritage, while future-proofing the site for shared infrastructure use.
