Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development is refused as it seeks to create a new agricultural entrance on a Class 1 Regional Road (R772) where mandatory 220m sightlines cannot be achieved, posing a traffic hazard, and involves the unnecessary removal of established hedgerow despite the availability of alternative access.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The Inspector concluded that the development must be assessed as a new entrance because no physical or documented evidence of a previous farm entrance was provided.
- The proposal fails to meet the required 220m sightlines for a Class 1 Regional Road, which is essential for public safety on a stretch of road with an 80kph speed limit and an unbroken white line.
- The development is deemed unnecessary and contrary to sustainable development policies as it would result in the loss of mature hedgerow while alternative access points to the farm already exist.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Section 18.29.3Section 6.2.6Objective TS72Objective TS73Objective TS74Objective ED99Table 8-11Objective T27
Decision Document Summary
The applicant, Stephen Byrne, sought planning permission for the reinstatement of a farm entrance and a 20m deep dwell area at Tinnock Lower, Co. Wexford. The Planning Authority (Wexford County Council) refused the application, citing traffic hazards and conflicts with regional road access policies. The applicant appealed, arguing the entrance was a reinstatement that would improve safety for modern machinery. However, the Inspector's report highlights that the R772 is a Class 1 Regional Road re...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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