Core Refusal Reason
The Planning Authority refused permission citing insufficient sightlines and traffic hazard concerns under DM Standard 20, but the Inspector recommends granting permission, concluding that the proposed access provides adequate sightlines (220m/120m) that exceed current standards for a 60km/h zone.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The principle of residential development is acceptable as the site is located within the designated rural settlement boundary of Kilcolgan.
- The proposed vehicular access onto the N67 provides sightlines (220m west, 120m east) that significantly exceed the 90m requirement for a 60 km/h speed zone, ensuring no traffic hazard is created.
- The proposed wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter are compliant with the EPA Code of Practice 2021 and will not adversely affect the integrity of nearby Natura 2000 sites.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Galway County Development Plan 2022-2028DM Standard 20 (GCDP 2015-2021)DM Standard 28 (Sight Distances)DM Standard 29Table 15.3 (Sight Distances)Table 15.5 (Parking Standards)Chapter 2 (Settlement Strategy - Tier 7a)Policy CGR 1 (Compact Growth)Section 3.2 (Strategic Aims)Section 15 (Development Management Standards)
Decision Document Summary
This report concerns a first-party appeal by Pat Kinahan against Galway County Council's decision to refuse permission for a 211 sq. m two-storey dwelling, road access, and sewage treatment system at Kilcolgan, Co. Galway. The site is a 0.05-hectare greenfield plot fronting the N67, situated within a 60 km/h speed zone. The Planning Authority's refusal was based on traffic safety and sightline deficiencies under the previous Development Plan. However, the Inspector argues that under the current ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.