Residents of Slieau Dhoo - Rebuttal

Rebuttal Statement to Manx Telecom’s letter submitted in respect of the Planning Appeal AP25/0025 for the proposed installation of 4 telegraph poles in Slieau Dhoo.

• Figure 1 – from MT appeal letter

Although Highways Services did not object to the application the poles would still intrude as they would be placed fully on the pavement, and also would intrude further than the current street furniture. This could create issues for disabled access and those with push chairs and prams.

• Figure 2 – from MT appeal letter

There are currently no wooden telegraph poles in the whole of Tromode Park Estate. The current number of telegraph poles on the Island does not justify the installation of more poles when there are alternative methods of delivery.

• Figure 3 – from MT appeal letter

This is just the opinion of Manx Telecom, and doesn’t appear to be based on the current reality of the environment. The road is a very open aspect area with very little street furniture and this proposed installation of the poles would be an increase of 100% of the street furniture alone, not including the cables that would then connect between the poles and houses.

• Figure 4 – from MT appeal letter

Again this is an opinion of Manx Telecom, with no facts to back it. Due to the unique topography of the area the poles and cables will be instantly visible and impact the outlook of the houses on one side of the road, and be overbearing on the houses on the Southern side of the road as they would tower over the property roof lines. The overhead cables would create a very enclosed feel to what is currently a wide open space between houses with large front gardens.

• Figure 5 - from MT appeal letter

The aforementioned application and installation covered the whole of the Ballamillaghyn Estate, whereas this application is for one part of one road. Installing poles and cables in one small section of the road would make it totally out of harmony with the surrounding area and create a huge negative visual impact. As objectors to the original application, it was made very clear to us by both the Planning Committee, and the Senior Planning Officer advising the Committee, “that previous applications should not be taken as precedents.” This is why we have haven’t mentioned previously all the applications which were refused, which far outnumbered the ones approved.

Comparing this application with the one for Ballamillaghyn is at best disingenuous and at worst spurious, as both the two estates and their respective applications are not comparable.

• Figure 6 - from MT appeal letter

Whilst Manx Telecom are obviously aiming this comment at the Planning Committee, it also applies to their view of the level of harm to the amenity of the area and the visual impact of the proposed installation. They would not have to live with the loss of the open aspect and attractive vistas that we are currently lucky enough to enjoy.

• Figure 7 – from MT appeal letter

We appreciate that Manx Telecom wish to contribute to the Isle of Man Governments strategic objectives, however the fact remains that there are alternatives to outdated and intrusive telegraph poles and cables, which Manx Telecom seem to be ignoring based on cost rather than truly considering the needs of providing a future proofed fast and reliable fibre broadband service. Further, contrary to Manx Telecom’s closing statement there has been absolutely no communication or collaboration with our community, and they appear to have no sensitivity to our environment.

We thank the Planning Inspector for their attention to and consideration of this rebuttal statement, in respect of our concerns regarding the visual and environmental impact of this proposal.