Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development on a restricted site would fundamentally alter the rural character of the area, introducing an incongruous suburban-type development typology that is at odds with the 'RU' Rural Zoning and landscape protection objectives of the Fingal Development Plan 2023-2029.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant successfully demonstrated a genuine rural housing need based on long-term residency (27 years) and family ties, satisfying the Rural Settlement Strategy criteria.
- The physical subdivision of the 0.4ha plot results in a 'shoehorned' and 'subservient' layout that mimics suburban infill rather than traditional rural development patterns.
- The proposed dwelling would adversely impact the 'High Lying' landscape character and set an undesirable precedent for the suburbanisation of protected rural areas.
Cited Policies (CDP)
RU Rural ZoningObjective RF59Objective DMS52Objective RF55Objective CSO77Objective CSO81Policy CSP45Policy CSP46Policy SPQHP45Policy SPQHP46Policy SPQHP50Policy SPQHP55Objective SPQHO50Objective SPQHO51Objective SPQHO53Objective SPQHO72Objective SPQHO75Objective SPQHO81Objective SPQHO84Objective SPQHO89Objective DMSO41Objective DMSO43Table 3.5
Decision Document Summary
This report concerns a first-party appeal against the refusal of a 3-bedroom detached dormer dwelling on a subdivided 0.4ha family landholding in Oberstown, Lusk. The site, located in a sensitive 'High Lying' agricultural area zoned 'RU' (Rural), currently contains one bungalow and is bordered by the Ballough Stream. While the Inspector acknowledged that the applicant met the 15-year residency requirement for rural housing and that the shared access proposal mitigated ribbon development concerns...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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